The Gymnastics Creed

Patience is man’s greatest virtue, or so the saying goes
A gymmnast must have said it, for a gymnast surely knows
That is this funny sport of ours, discouragement runs high
And at times the best will find, this virtue has passed us by

When hands are ripped and throbbing, when every muscle is sore
Can a gymnast still have patience, to go back in for more?
When you’ve lost old moves you used in days, and progress seems so slow
Can you still have faith in better days, and not feel sad and low?

Can you admit you’re frightened, yet not give in to fear
Can you conquer pain, frustration, and often even tears

When someone else does something, that you’ve tried so long to do
Can you really feel glad for them, or just pity for you?
And when success seems far away, your efforts all in vain
Can you force yourself to wear a smile, and disregard the pain

If, despite the tribulations, You can say, “I won’t give in!”
Maybe someday you’ll discover ...that it’s your time to win