One deep breath; place left hand behind back and the other over the heart. Stand up straight. Check. Now what? Something always goes wrong with the music. The crowd looks around awkwardly during delay; but then it begins- the official anthem of patriotism, in all its everlasting glory. Now, writing this, I can feel my pulse intensify from the pure thought of it.

“Oh say can [I sing]?” No, unless the crowd would enjoy having their ears bleed from my nails-on-a-chalkboard pitch, and no, singing by the dawn’s early light wouldn’t make a difference.
“The Star Spangled Banner” is played before most sports games. As a volleyball player, I hear this song before every game, every Tuesday and Thursday, from the end of August to, if fortunate enough to make it to the state tournament, the middle of November. As I listen, I picture how I should play. Eyes closed, I visualize myself executing a perfect pass, a perfect set, a perfect kill. I take another deep breath as I remember that I need to calm myself before serving; all of my focus on who will step up to take on my challenge. Then, I direct my attention to my teammates standing on either side of me. Seeing my expression reflected on their faces, an extroverted look of glee, but with the seriousness and heart it takes to be a true competitor. I close my eyes again in admiration.