Ode to a Bruise:
Bruise, I don’t like you.
Yet, I do.
It means I worked hard.
Maybe too hard.
Today you hit me good.
Swollen and black and blue.
Yet I PR’ed my Snatch.
What else could I do?
A bruise is a badge of honor.
I tell myself this when I accidentally bump you.
You deserve to exist.
Like I deserve to grow strong.
A bruise, a bruise, a bruise.
I love you.
Today I got a nasty bruise (also known as battle scars) in the pocket while power snatching. Â It hurts. Â But at least I know my form was good. Â And it was worth it: Â I PR’ed!
If you’re like me, you constantly have bruises from CrossFit. Â Some causes are known. Â The majority for me are unknown. Â On my legs. Â Thighs. Â Shins. Â Foot. Â Arms. Â Fingers. Â Collarbone. Â Knees.
Annoying. Â Yes. Â But it means I worked hard. Â And long. Â And progressed. Â Visible signs that sometimes I need when progress in areas is so small that you don’t see it.
So, yes, bruises–constant bruises–are a part of CrossFit. Â Almost as much as community and competition, camaraderie and strength.
So to you bruise: Â Go ahead! Â Come! Â I accept your challenge. Â Because in the end it makes me stronger.