Bloom

The most fulfilling part about the way I was feeling right then was that it had come from a decision I’d made just a few months earlier. All these good things – playing in a home World Cup, performing well on the pitch, forming strong new friendships – had come from my decision to make myself a priority.

I had become a stronger version of myself and felt so much lighter about everything. I almost felt invincible. I knew that I would be able to get myself through anything. It was a really empowering experience. The loneliness was challenging, but it did make me realise that, even when no one was around, I would still be okay. No matter what, I would always have myself to keep me company.

When I looked up into the night sky and felt the pull of nature that lives inside of me, I couldn’t help but smile. Breathing in and out, my heart full of pride, I told myself: ‘You are here. You are alive. It’s so nice that you stayed.’