They are the only ones who know the pain and struggle. I am the only one who understands. Two torn gymnasts with strong arms and muscled legs. Two with chalky ripped palms. Two with sweat dripping down their foreheads. From long hours of practice, hurting more each day, doesn’t stop them from achieving.
     Their pain isn’t noticeable. They work until their bones are broken. They are denial as they continue to train harder and harder as their muscles feed off the sweat and pain that got them to where they are now. This is the life they choose.
     Let one not forget the medals and awards, they justify the pain and torment. Push, push, push they continue to tear down their bodies. They train.
     When they are broken and just can’t take another step, when every ounce of energy has been used, then they know they’re addicted. When there is no more chalk. Two who trained. Two who tumble and condition. Two whose only life is centered as a gymnast.