Red

When I was first brought into the boathouse, the outside world was different. The rowers were different, the clothes they wore were different, the oars they used were different, and the waters of the lake were clearer. The boathouse had maybe just four or five boats. Eventually, new leadership took control of the boathouse. They were richer, and liked rowing in their leisure time. 

When a new boat was introduced, all the rowers would gather around the small space in the middle of the boathouse and talk about how expensive the boat was, and where they got it from. These new people gave all of the boats names. Mine was "Red," because I had a red stripe down the middle.

Over the years, boats have undergone significant changes to make them faster and lighter. I was wide, made of wood, and very heavy, so that the boat could remain stable. Newer boats slowly moved towards full carbon-fiber builds, and slimmer widths. They were build for speed. Boats like me were assigned to new rowers in case they crashed into different objects. Every time I ran into something, it would send a shockwave through me. It was the worst pain imaginable. However, I still remember thinking to myself at the time that the pain was worth it, because in exchange, I would still feel the satisfaction of cutting through the water. It has been so long since I was made that even the new rowers won't row me. It is the fate that is destined for all boats: they eventually just collect dust in the boathouse.

Now, when the rowers turn off the lights and lock the doors, the day really begins for me. I spend the nights talking with the boats stored next to me, which are newer and lighter, but still well-worn. Talking is the most fulfilling part of our days. The most popular topics are the latest boats being added to the boathouse, or who had crashed into a log that day. Over time, we developed a deep connection with each other. Newer boats would also ask me how it felt to not be rowed, and I would reply that I had forgotten the feeling. It was certainly a freeing experience, but you just don't fully appreciate it when it’s happening. They would then sigh and think about how they would eventually turn out like me. But the cycle continues, and I fear that one day boats like me will be removed from the boathouse to clear up space. That is why I make the most of every day in the boathouse, even if I am not getting rowed.