Semper Paratus

I live my life by two quotes or mottos; “what’s the worst that could happen” and “Fake it till you make it.” I honestly believe replaying those two things in my head makes me unstoppable.

My first college internship was with the US Coast Guard. During the application process, I considered faking it until I made it. They asked me several questions about my physical fitness; I had no idea then that my answers would haunt me. The most physical activity I was doing was running late to my classes. I knew I was nowhere near military fit, but I just faked it.

I attempted to get in shape before the internship, but my laziness kicked in, and I thought, what’s the worst that could happen if I go there out of shape. So I went back to binge-watching my latest Netflix series. I portrayed so much confidence in my physical abilities and, of course, academic attributes I received a job offer.

Shortly after starting my internship, I found out what was the worst that could happen. I was in the store for a highly exhausting summer! After week one, my entire body was sore, and I was homesick. Besides the workouts, just getting around was exercise! I was in the middle of nowhere, and it seemed like I was constantly climbing a giant hill, figuratively and literally. My room was on the 5th deck, with no elevator in sight. The only comforting thing was the cafeteria was on the bottom tier, and the food was terrific.

Although my body was hating me and wondering why I couldn’t apply for a desk job for the summer, I refused to let it show. I was determined to always be on top of my game. I was the only short and small black woman, and I just assumed they were waiting for me to complain and unable to keep up. So, I did what I did best, fake it till I made it. I was a little G. I Keems mastered physical fitness and robotics, which was one of the main reasons I was there.

By the end of the summer, I was stronger mentally and physically. I learned so much about myself and realized I can do anything if I put my mind to it. Life is a giant mental chess game, and I refuse to lose.