Why I Derby

I thought it would be fun to flex the brain muscles, or would it technically be fire the brain neurons...anyways, I wanted to really reflect on why I derby. So here it goes.

1. I love skating. I started skating in the second grade. My dad put a pair of skates on me and I learned on top of a bomb shelter in a Taiwanese military village.

2. Derby is hard. Thinking back, picking up a new skill or hobby has always been relatively easy for me. I'm a quick learner, but I really love the challenge that Derby is providing me. Being able to stand firm as a 150 pound skater accelerates towards you, all this while on 8 wheels, is definitely no small feat to accomplish.

3. I'm facing my fears and finding my identity. All my life, I've been a people pleaser, and I've changed my personality to fit with others. I'm using this stage in my life to finally figure out who I am. I am a 9 on the Enneagram, which explains this behavior, but I want to do better. I am so inspired by my children as they fearlessly jump into the swimming pool, or attempt a jump on their scooter. I want to face my fears of insecurity, safety, and failure; overcome them; and come out the other end a better person. I also want my children to see me do all the tough things and be able to persevere through the tough times. Life will be tough.

4. I love the community. Derby community is probably the most encouraging and inclusive group of people ever. Once you get past the tough girl persona put on by many of the colored-hair and tattoo covered women, you find someone so loving and accepting inside.

Well, that's it for now. I'll think of some more and add it to the list.