I'm losing now, but I feel weightless and strangely free.

This moment is a gift.

I have nothing to prove.

I feel shameless.

I don't back down, but I also don't give in to my worst self.

Here it gives me the most perfect moment of my life.

I retreat to my corner when the bell rings and try to pay attention to Danny, who's talking

in a steady stream of boxing cliches.

Don't gas out, get in and out, bunches of punches.

But his words are less comforting than his voice.

A tether as he wipes my face and takes care of me.

I take in the crowd again, their face is a drunken, bloodthirsty blur.

I want a burger.

I want to hug my girlfriend.

I want to be gentle with myself.

I'm alive.

I'm alive.

Thomas Page McBee is a journalist who found answers to some of his most profound questions

through fighting and along the way discovered what happens when you stop trying to win.

Notice the level of energy in your body, whatever it is.

Any areas of vibration, areas of stillness, heat and cool.

Dropping any thoughts of elsewhere and trusting our instincts and our abilities.

...