Dear Diary, I Peaked At Recess (And I'm Fine With It)

People say "peaked in high school" like it's an insult. I peaked earlier than that, and more specifically, and I've made total peace with it. Fourth grade, second recess, a gym floor that smelled like rubber and bad decisions — that was it. That was the top of the mountain. Everything since has just been me finding new and increasingly sarcastic ways to live off that energy.

Here's the thing nobody tells you: peaking early isn't a tragedy if you're willing to keep the muscle. I didn't stop playing the game just because I got taller and started paying rent. I just changed the equipment. These days the "ball" is a group chat that won't stop, or a coworker who thinks "per my last email" isn't a threat. Same reflexes. Same aim. Better shoes.

So no, I have no notes for ten-year-old me. She had this figured out before the rest of us caught up.

Filed under: zero regrets, several dodgeballs