One of my poem processes.
My thought process for writing the latest poem… I actually came up with three different poems from when I gathering my thoughts… after reading this…….. see poem #1 from this… called “The Story My Headgear Tells” on the bottom.
Here are five thoughtful feelings about the experience of putting on headgear, whether for sports, protection, or a sense of readiness:
- A Shift in Mindset: As the headgear slides over my ears, there’s a mental shift from everyday life to focus and purpose. It’s the moment you step into a new role—whether as an athlete, a soldier, or a protector—leaving behind distractions and preparing for battle, both physical and mental.
- A Sense of Security: The snug fit around your head offers a tangible reminder of protection. It brings a feeling of safety, like a shield, giving you the confidence to take on challenges, knowing that you’re equipped to withstand impact.
- A Surge of Anticipation: As the chin strap clicks into place, adrenaline rises. It’s a signal that the match, the ride, or the mission is about to begin. The weight of the headgear on your head feels like the anticipation of something big, preparing you to push beyond your limits.
- A Connection to Tradition: Wearing a headgear connects you to a long history of warriors, athletes, and adventurers. It’s more than just equipment—it’s a symbol of discipline, commitment, and resilience. You carry with you the legacy of everyone who’s worn one before, whether on the mat, the practice, or the battlefield.
- A Moment of Isolation and Focus: Once the headgear is on, the world feels more distant, sounds are muffled, and it’s just you, your thoughts, and your goal. There’s a clarity that comes with the isolation, a calm before the storm, where your focus sharpens and your energy channels toward what’s coming next.
“The Story My Headgear Tells”
by Jon Gums – Dakota Grappler
I pull you on, snug and tight,
A ritual before the fight.
You’ve seen it all—the highs, the lows,
The place where every wrestler goes.
You felt my heart race with the strain,
When all I sought was to endure the pain.
The moments blurred, sweat and fear,
But with you on, the path was clear.
You’ve muffled sound, you’ve cleared my mind,
The world outside left far behind.
In your embrace, I found my start,
A place where body meets the heart.
You’ve shielded me when blows would land,
Kept me steady when I could barely stand.
Each grip, each fall, each victory sweet,
You bore witness to my defeat.
But more than gear, you held my soul,
A symbol of my growing whole.
Through every match, through every tear,
You’ve been the guide that led me here.
Now each time I wear you still,
You echo every wrestled will—
For in you, I found what I could be,
The truest form, the wrestler in me.
This poem intertwines the emotional connection with my headgear and the journey of self-discovery that wrestling has brought me.
