Life's Path

The ride-a-long I took last week sealed the deal. The shift lasted until 2, I left around midnight, and couldn't fall asleep until 3. I knew, as soon as I sat in the squad car that I was going to enjoy every second of the evening. The officers I rode with were incredibly nice and answered any questions I had about the job. I also admired the Sergeant for showing up at every call and taking control of the situations.

A few days later I was flown up to Waterloo, Wisconsin to hold an interview with Trek at their factory offices. I was not looking forward to the trip because I had already decided to apply to the Police Academy, but went with an open mind so that my decision wouldn't sway as much. After seeing the corporate environment with cubicles and seeing how my job would entail sitting in front of a computer all day answering emails and phone calls, I decided it wasn't the job for me.

So, here I am, going through the application process with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and loving every minute of it. I already passed the written exam and am waiting for my oral exam on May 6th. I absolutely cannot wait to get into the Academy. I haven't wanted something so badly in my entire life, not even winning a bike race or starting a relationship. This time, I know I am doing something that is 100% without a doubt good for me and exactly what I should be doing with my life. I am so grateful I not only know this, but also have the opportunity to do it.

I'm home sick today and unable to race Dogwood tomorrow. I'm pretty bummed. I had such an intense week with working full time, studying and taking the exam, cleaning my apartment so my landlord can show it, and not having enough time to ride my bike. My body finally crashed after I took the exam yesterday and I'm paying for it today (also, this cruddy cold has been traveling between people at work, mixed with super high pollen counts). Tomorrow I'm off work since I originally intended to race, so I will use it as a rest day. Too bad it's super freaking nice out!! I guess I'll be watching movies, drinking Gatorade, and sleeping all day.

FYI, little bro is over 6 months sober and working a sweet job with Kaldi's.