Where does the time go? It seems like just yesterday I was trying out for drill team for the first time EVER. I was nervous and second guessed myself more than ever. Was this something I really wanted to do? Did I really want to spend endless hours every single day being with 30+ girls? Looking back over the years, drill team is one thing I'm glad I took on and let become a huge part of my life. Drill team taught me life lessons I will carry with me always.
1. How to be patient
Everyone that has ever participated in any social gathering knows that you always have those few that test your patience. Drill team prepared me to deal with those few people by sucking it up and keeping a positive attitude, despite how annoying it might've been. The whining and complaining of having to do a routine over, a surprise practice, or someone messing up are moments I'll carry with me always.
2. To be dressed & ready to go quickly
30 minutes to put on tights, a leotard, a vest, gauntlets, a hat, and boots… Oh wait! Did I mention your hair and makeup? It does take time to get your hair in a messy bun on top of your head and to throw a ton of glitter on your eyes! I feel now that I am prepared to take on the world in less than 30 minutes. Woke up late for my 8 am? No problem. Thanks drill team for giving me time management skills.
3. You get what you get, & you don't throw a fit
Yes, a quote we get told from the time we can walk and talk. Drill team taught me that it's okay to not get something you wanted. It taught me that everything happens for a reason. I have learned to work harder towards things I want when things don't exactly go my way. I'm very appreciative for the things I do earn myself though.
4. To be nice to everyone
Yes, I mean EVERRRYYYONNEEE. You don't like that girl because she “stole” your boyfriend from you in junior high? Too bad. Drill team taught me to bite my tongue and suck it up when I had to work with girls I didn't care for. This is a great skill that I learned because I know now working, you don't get along with everyone! I know how to smile, shake things off, and make amends no matter what.
5. To love yourself always
Random? No, drill team helped me find a huge part of myself. Endless sleepovers and socials taught me that I don't need makeup to feel like a beautiful person. It taught me that weight does not matter because the biggest or tiniest of girls can still dance better than one or the other. It taught me to speak up for myself and to never settle.
Drill team as a whole made me realize a lot. It made my high school days a little more easy. From it I have made friends that are like sisters, lifelong friendships. They hold all of my secrets and have my back no matter what. Drill team was a great experience that I'm thankful I did. The lessons it taught me will stick with me for the rest of my life, and for that I'm forever appreciative.
