believe in yourself, everyone else does revised

As I walked off the track, I hung my head in shame. I walked right past my coach, family, and teammates, straight to my bag. I had just finished racing the mile at the state meet, but broke down mentally and fell apart. I knew after my record setting performance last week, this was a complete failure. After my worst race of the year, I couldn’t bring myself to face anyone at the time. To make matters worse, my soon to be college coach had been there to witness my abysmal performance. With thousands of people in the crowd, my only hope was to sink into the swarm around me, hoping not to see him. Understanding the frustration running through my body, he left me to myself. Fearing the questions from my friends, I got up and began to walk around the stadium, wandering in my sorrows. My mind began to wander, failure overwhelming me. I began to wonder if collegiate athletics was for me, or if I should just give up and quit. Quitting seemed the logical answer, s I thought there was no chance of success left for me.

Over the next few days, I dreaded my next contact with my coach. There it was, a new email, sitting, waiting for me to open it.

I read in shock. I re-read it just to verify. My coach had sent me a summer running schedule full of workouts and detailed instructions. For a moment I did not understand, but soon I realized what had occurred. Though I had one bad race at the end of the year, he knew it was not reflective of my true ability. He maintained faith in me and was not going to give me an excuse to end my athletic career so young. Since then I regained my confidence and continue to improve.

Word Count: 309

Believe in yourself in times of trouble because other will.

Believe in yourself, everyone else does

Lyndon Novotny

As I walked off the track, I hung my head in shame. I walked right past my coach, family, and teammates, straight to my bag. I had just finished racing the mile at the state meet, but broke down mentally and fell apart. After my worst performance of the year, I couldn’t bring myself to face anyone at the time. To make matters worse, my soon to be college coach had been there to witness my abysmal performance. With thousands of people in the crowd, my only hope was to sink into the swarm around me, hoping not to see him. Understanding the frustration running through my body, he left me to myself. Fearing the questions from my friends, I got up and began to walk around the stadium, wandering in my sorrows. My mind began to wander, failure overwhelming me. I began to wonder if collegiate athletics was for me, or if I should just give up and quit. Quitting seemed the logical answer, s I thought there was no chance of success left for me.

Over the next few days, I dreaded my next contact with my coach. There it was, a new email, sitting, waiting for me to open it.

I read in shock. I re-read it just to verify. My coach had sent me a summer running schedule full of workouts and detailed instructions. For a moment I did not understand, but soon I realized what had occurred. Though I had one bad race at the end of the year, he knew it was not reflective of my true ability. He maintained faith in me and was not going to give me an excuse to end my athletic career so young. Since then I regained my confidence and continue to improve.

Story Point: Always stay confident in your abilities in times of struggle, others will.

Word count: 295

Manage Responsibility with Play

My brother and I entered the kitchen, walking in out of the hot, sticky air. Sweating and out of breath, we retreated to the cool and dark basement. There we sat watching television as our heartbeats slowed to a crawl. It was late May and we had just finished our usual neighborhood football game down the street. Just like all the other days, we had returned from school at 3:00 pm and upon arriving home, immediately headed down the street to meet our friends. As an hour flashed by, almost in an instant, my brother announced it was time for us to go home. Against my protests, he forced me to leave, dragging my grounded feet for a few strides. After half an hour of television my mom entered the room and reported it was time to work on our schoolwork for the evening. Once again, I was upset and wanted to refuse, but knew better. My parents were very stern when it came to our schooling and made sure that we tried our best to succeed. My complaints would have been more effective against a statue, there was no wiggle room allowed. So we sat around the great square table and worked diligently until we finished, something that took a surprisingly short time. Because I had finished, I was once again allowed to join my friends to continue our play from earlier, this time under a pink and orange evening sky.

Word Count: 242

Message: Do not let your desires to relax and play come in the way of your obligations and responsibilities in life.

School's Ups and Downs

When I was a senior in high school, the time when most kids are most tired of learning and want nothing more than to be done, my English teacher got me to re-focus and prepare for the rest of my life. With a dry sense of humor and sharp wit, he was able to strengthen my writing abilities, a subject I previously struggled in. He also provided the structure and guidance no other teacher had ever afforded me. My confidence grew and by the end of the year I rose to the top of my class and earned my first five on an AP test. Because of this, I placed out of entry level English in college and allowed me to write stronger essays in my other classes.

My worst experience in schooling came in he fifth grade during algebra lessons. I failed two tests in a row and was forced to have my parents sign them. After getting yelled at, I was forced to take extra lessons to improve my grades. These lessons occurred during recess, my favorite time of day. Having to sit inside and listen to everyone outside running around, playing kickball, and playing tag was at the time the hardest thing I had ever had to endure. Everyone came in laughing and sweating, while I sat there waiting to continue learning.

word count: 225

The Core To a Better Life

Lyndon Novotny

Every year I travel with my family to a different vacation spot. We try to go to different states and altering terrain. We always stay in a resort house, but end up either outdoors or visiting local spots of attraction. Because we spend so much time together, there is always sure to be disputes, arguments, or accidents that shape the trip. On one particular vacation, my mom set the oven on fire and was upset the rest of the week. Since the rest of the family found it so amusing, she was bitter and resentful towards us. However, since we are so close and compatible, we were able to joke and laugh about the incident without anyone getting upset. In fact, as the years go on, a vacation such as this draws us closer and helps us bond with each other.

On a more personal and daily level, family dinner is an essential part of our household. Growing up, there were only a few times when we would not eat together. By doing so, you have a chance to share stories, ask for advice or simply enjoy each other’s company. This is where my brother and I learned life lessons, morals, and proper conduct to help us succeed in life.

By spending time valuable time with my family while growing and developing, I feel that I was able to become a stronger individual, as well as a better friend to those around me. I believe that our surroundings shape and guide us for the future.

I believe in a strong family core.


Word count: 262

The Core To a Better Life

Lyndon Novotny

Every year I travel with my family to a different vacation spot. We try to go to different states and altering terrain. We always stay in a resort house, but end up either outdoors or visiting local spots of attraction. Because we spend so much time together, there is always sure to be disputes, arguments, or accidents that shape the trip. On one particular vacation, my mom set the oven on fire and was upset the rest of the week. Since the rest of the family found it so amusing, she was bitter and resentful towards us. However, since we are so close and compatible, we were able to joke and laugh about the incident without anyone getting upset. In fact, as the years go on, a vacation such as this draws us closer and helps us bond with each other.
On a more personal and daily level, family dinner is an essential part of our household. Growing up, there were only a few times when we would not eat together. By doing so, you have a chance to share stories, ask for advice or simply enjoy each other’s company. This is where my brother and I learned life lessons, morals, and proper conduct to help us succeed in life.
By spending time valuable time with my family while growing and developing, I feel that I was able to become a stronger individual, as well as a better friend to those around me. I believe that our surroundings shape and guide us for the future.
I believe in a strong family core.

Word count: 262

Blog 4: revision of Blog 3 (an amateur no more)

Steve Prefontaine is undoubtedly one of America’s best distance runners. At one point he held numerous American records across varying distances and competed in the 1972 Olympics in Munich. Pre lived a hard life, over coming obstacles everyday. Perhaps more significant than his performances, Prefontaine is an inspiration of determination to millions.

It’s fascinating to witness a man who spent his life active and in fast forward, change to a still, single, image that can captivate millions. Over time, the single picture of Prefontaine at Oregon’s track has gathered much popularity and fame. As more people note the impact of the image, the significance grows as well. Possibly the famous pose, one of the world’s most famous tracks, and his most popular quote all aid this iconic state.

Throughout Pre’s life he worked and struggled to become the best in every facet of life. He never settled for anything less than his personal best, and was once quoted saying, "Somebody may beat me, but they are going to have to bleed to do it." To see Pre finishing first, one knows the determination he held and the strength he possessed to chase and attain his life’s dreams. Drawing from this, we can all gather a little bit of inspiration to not only get through our busy lives, but also gain the force needed to push forward to reach our own aspirations. The sole image can move many in ways unknown to them.

When Pre went through life, he worked to entertain those who watched him. Little did he know that well over 35 years after his death, pictures of him would be able to motivate and uplift so many people to do what they truly want in life.

Word count:288

An Amateur No More

Steve Prefontaine is undoubtedly one of America’s best distance runners. At one point in time he held numerous American records across varying distances and competed in the 1972 Olympics in Munich. Pre lived a hard and troubled life, over coming great obstacles all throughout his days here. Perhaps more significant than his actual performances, Prefontaine is an inspiration of trial and determination to millions.

It is fascinating to witness a man who spent his whole life being active and in fast forward, change to a still, single, image that can captivate millions. Over time, the single picture of Prefontaine winning at Oregon’s track has gathered more popularity and fame throughout this nation. As more people note the impact of the image, the significance grows as well. Possibly the most famous pose, one of the world’s most famous tracks, and his most commonly used quote all add to this images iconic state.

Throughout Pre’s life he worked and struggled to become the best in every facet of life. He ran more miles than his teammates, ran faster than everyone else in the country, fought the AAU for improved rights for American athletes, and almost won the Olympics 5000 meters in Munich. He never settled for anything less than his personal best, and was once quoted saying, "Somebody may beat me, but they are going to have to bleed to do it." To see Pre finishing first, one knows the determination he held and the strength he possessed to chase and attain his life’s dreams. Drawing from this, we can all gather a little bit of inspiration to not only get through our busy lives, but also gain the force needed to push forward to reach our own aspirations. The sole image can move many in ways unknown to them.

When Pre went through life, he worked to entertain those who watched him. Little did he know that well over 35 years after his death, pictures of him would be able to motivate and uplift so many people to do what they truly want in life.

Word count: 344

Old Spice, Become More of a Man

Over the years companies have sought to develop quality products for Americans, seeking out business for a lifetime. Deodorant companies are no different and have worked for specific angles to attract customers, hoping to be more than a product, more of a way of life for each individual. Old Spice, more than just a deodorant, represents a rich history of confidence and success that men can be proud to be a part of.

For many years, the symbol of Old Spice has been a ship at sea. While the symbol may vary slightly, it always remains similar, as one of the main pitches was that of masculine men at sea. One commercial portrays a young man following an older and handsomer male with an attractive woman. At the end of the commercial, the announcer says, “Perhaps its one reason women have always impatiently waited for their men to return from the sea”. Another newer add is known for saying that if your father or grandfather had not used Old Spice when younger, you would not exist. By saying this, the company implies that simply by using their product, your life is enriched with women waiting on you and willing to do anything for you. While we know this is not necessarily true, we as consumers are lured into purchasing it in hopes of being successful with the opposite sex.

Current adds produced also play on our subconscious, using high profile sports stars, celebrities, and other well know popular figures of society. Such athletes and celebrities as Tony Stewart, Brian Urlacher, and LL Cool J have all made guess appearances. These are men at the top of their sports or professions and all claim to use Old Spice as their deodorant of choice. When we see these confident, successful men we feel a sense of power and strength and to be the best in our own lives. Simply by using the deodorant we feel more confident and capable to handle the troubles of the day with ease.

With advertising agencies working to delve deep into our subconscious train of thought, it is no wonder we as purchasers find one brand early in life and stick with it for the rest of our lives. With a long lasting company in Old Spice, customers can easily be hooked for life, enticed by the hopes of success, woman, power, and confidence. With one simple product, men everywhere are surer of themselves and carry themselves with dignity and pride.

word count:414

Getting through the pages

To those who have taught me over the years, or to those who know the books that I read would be shocked to learn of the struggle I had first learning to read.  When I first started elementary school, like most children, I was not able to read very well. As First grade wore on, more and more kids began to read intorductoy level books such as Dr. Suess and Spot.  However, I found myself struggling to keep up with them and soon felt discouraged by my failures and was disinterested in all books.  Worried for my academic success, my father took strong measures to ensure I would surpass my peers. Everyday I would return home from school just to sit down with him and work on my reading skills. Day after day we worked, and slowly I leanred more words and combinations of words until finally I was able to read my first full book without assistance, Clifford the big Red Dog. With my new found success, I was greatly encourage to continue working.  Soon enough I began reading books for fun, trying to improve while also learning and having fun.  I found that reading articles and magizines publish about animals with accompaning pictures made reading even more enjoyable.  As the years progressed I continued my excess of reading and soon enough was ahead of not only my classmates in abaility, but my entire age group as well.  By the fourth grade I was reading books well ahead of my age, often times three or four years ahead.  I continued this pace until I reached high school upon which I began to actively participate in clubs and athletics. When I would return home at night from school, I would be drained of energy and would only do what was required to pass my classes.  The days of reading extra soon faded away and I began to loose my ability to read on an advanced level. Not until senior year did I begin to work on improving my abilties. Worried for college and my AP Composition class, I once again began to read more intensely.  I mangaged to rise to the top of my english class and received the highest grade on my final AP composition test, thanks to my supreme reading skills.  From my hard work and effort I learned the importance of continually pushing yourself beyond what your ordinarily thought possible and the necessity of staying true to your goals and not backing down.

Word Count: 416

Lyndon Richard Novotny

My name is Lyndon Novotny and I run XC and Track for UMBC... GO BIG DAWGS!!! My family is primarily from Pennsylvania, with origins to Germany and France, but I consider myself American. I have a very strong sense of National Pride and believe that no matter what, we as a nation can overcome any obstacle. My family has stayed very close over the years, and is the core to my beliefs. They gave me a great faith base and showed me how to be a caring individual in all facets of my life.