crossroads (n) - a point at which a crucial decision must be made that will have far-reaching consequences
At the end of September, I decided to take a sabbatical from rugby. After four years of the professional game in America, my body, mind and soul needed a reset. I took a big risk leaving the familiarities of military life. A steady job, a sense of purpose and a way of life. Many of my peers thought I was foolish to give it up. I saw things differently. After watching so many people die untimely deaths before my eyes, the safe road no longer appealed to me.
The journey was difficult from the start. With all its trouble, we emerged as darkhorse victors. Winning the first championship was pure madness-ecstasy. We took a collective sigh of relief. The team without a coach. Becoming the inaugural MLR Champions. That accolade will live everlasting. Even when it is all gone, there is nothing more meaningful than the emotion.
That was 40 months ago. Now I stand at the crossroads between two worlds. A budding startup company, an aging body, a shift in priorities. I could no longer go on as I had. I am quite excited for 2022 and what it will bring. A time to slow down and understand myself. A time to build my network and wealth. A time to refill the jugs of passion I once had. Rugby has been a blessing in my life. It has been a guiding light for me when I was hopeless. It gave me purpose and meaning in lost times. Like in 2013. Though I do not know what the future holds, I have faith that God will guide me.
My desire is to stay here in Seattle. Since I was 3 weeks old I was on an airplane. Always moving, always the new kid. It was a beautiful life, now I choose to shore up those experiences. Collect them and forge a new life from an exotic background. I appreciate, even just writing and sharing on this blog. I have the intention of using this platform to pave my path. Thank you for the kindness you have shown me Father. Thank you for your gifts and patience. Without it, I would not be typing this today.
Sincerely Eric M. Duechle
Post-match victory lap. Season One.