Internalized messages [rowing]

My novice coach during my freshman year of high school used to say that. He originally rowed for Harvard, which makes me wonder whether the saying originated with Harry Parker. I suppose I should read the book about Harry Parker next.

It's a message that I deeply internalized, and that has been important for helping to carry me through situations that might otherwise have felt like big setbacks.

I'm still trying to be that Best Rower. I don't feel like that rower when I get in the 1x, for instance. But it's something to keep aspiring to.