Backpack slung over

arms reaching for a water bottle

sun rays approaching

you could see the glimpse of light

it was about to begin

sturdy as a turtle’s shell

the backpack was there for survival

it wasn’t something you might need

is was there for you to succeed

holding knowledge

parts of Einstein’s brain

physics

calculus

experience

accumulated over years

A bird aiming for its prey

determination

focus

ready to be the first

ready to reach for the glimpse of light

Valedictorian

hardworking

First to reach the sun’s rays before the race even began

beat the sun before it was up

What are you up against?