I've Been Preparing For This Moment My Entire Life

Point A: Me
Point B: The Subway

Scattered strategically in between us are optimistic young people, equipped with saddle bags and clipboards. If they get you, you're locked into battle for at least 5 energy-sapping minutes. Who has more fortitude — that's all it ever comes down to. But they can't engage you if you don't make eye contact. She's looking towards the storefronts, I take the curb. He turns to the street, I dash to the wall. This one's occupied. This one's facing forward. Facing the paraplegic guy who sells m&ms. Facing me! I stop.

Stand still and wait. He turns. GO! Subway reached. Don't look back.

And finally, so many years later, I realize what Pokemon was actually training me for.