I, the phoenix

I didn’t do it for the prize
I have cups enough
to drink from—

but the camaraderie—
the friends made as we dare
to fit our minds
into another's pattern—
related yet unique—
we come together
players and coaches
pushing until we hurt
with growth

I wasn’t looking for activity
my cup is full
to overflowing
and sleep
happens to other people

but the cup is all—
the challenge of the journey
from me to more of me
until I am the most
I can be (for now)
I couldn’t have changed
without you

I’ve been shaped
through prompts
sprung forth
from fevered minds
until all non-essential
elements burn away
emptying me

I claw my way
through the ashes
of what I used to be
spread my wings
and soar

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