Once upon a time, I played roller derby. My derby name was Hazel Smut Crunch and the derby persona I assumed was dramatically different than the way I carried myself in my non-derby life. In derby, I was far more assertive. While I typically avoided conflict at all costs, derby forced me into conflict–it taught me to stand my ground and push back, both literally and figuratively.
Shortly after I retired from derby, I got this compact as part of a lot. I keep it on a shelf in my cube at work to remind me to draw on the strengths I built during derby, while staying true to myself and handling myself with classic grace, tact, and poise. I admit that I don’t think anyone who knows me has EVER described me as either poised or graceful, but that doesn’t stop me from trying. Just like a lack of athletic ability didn’t stop me from playing roller derby–and winning.
perfect.
Oh boy–what a lovely compact.
I am venturing into the world of derby–and by venturing, I mean starting a league. It is an amazing amount of work but boy, am I having fun! Nothing like just timidly “testing the waters”. The next closest league is over an hours drive–great girls, very helpful in getting us going. I think they really just cant wait to kick our butts!
I helped start NH Roller Derby here in New Hampshire. It was an absolutely amazing adventure and I learned a lot in my 2 1/2 years with the league. Good luck to you–and make sure you leave yourself room in your life for all the other things that you love.