The pitcher leans back, then pushes forward
Launching the yellow softball quickly towards home plate
The batter swings with all her might
Crack
The ball goes flying high into the bright blue sky
All the spectators collectively gasp holding their breath
Watching in silence the ball soar
The time feels like it has slowed down
The ball finally starts it’s decent
The girl in the outfield runs forward
Placing herself where she believes it will land
She keeps her eye on the ball pushing the nerves away
Reaching her brown glove up above her head
Smack
The crowd, the team and the coaches jump up and down
Screaming with excitement
She throws the ball to the pitcher
Confidently walking back to her spot in the outfield
Standing a little taller than before
The smile on her face shines bigger than the diamond
Published October 2023
Lyrical Iowa 2023