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Patina Jones, also known as Patty, has a passion for running. She's out there to prove that she isn't junk. Because of the death of her father, she had loads of responsibilities. Additionally, Patty struggled with always feeling second, like she isn't enough. Using her track skills, she perseveres and gains self-confidence as she leaves all her troubles in the dust and focuses on her future.

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Patina uses red beads every day to attach to her sister, Madison's, hair. On the day of the race, Patina braided her hair and put the red beads on her own braids showing that she loves Madison and cares for her. Knowing this, the beads symbolize Patina's thoughtfulness.

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During times of boredom, Patina grasps her nail polish and paints her nails with special designs and colors in honor of her favorite celebrity, Florence Joyner, a track runner. Whenever she paints her nails this way, the reader can see her attitude change as if she is ready for anything. These nails represent her confidence in herself.

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Patina's second place ribbon from her last race impacts her greatly. The idea of knowing she could have been second troubled her. Her ribbon symbolizes her insecurities and having no confidence in herself.

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"You are strong enough" (Reynolds 232).

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Instead of not believing in herself, Patina learns to have more self-confidence in herself, so she can become to best version of herself. I can relate to this when I feel that I'm not enough, but the Bible says that we are considered worthy in the kingdom of God (2 Thessalonians 1:11). The Bible also teaches us to never be discouraged, for the Lord will be with us.

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As well as dealing with family issues, Patina struggles with being the only African American girl with no friends. While exploring her identity, she gains confidence and a new friend with the help of her team members, her aunt, and her sister's support.

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Inspired by her aunt, Emily, Patina learns to be confident, have self-control, and be appreciative of her family's love. Emily becomes a major figure in Patina's life, giving her advice to be herself and stay strong. These words motivate her to persevere through all her struggles.

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Patina's loss of her dad showcases one of her toughest struggles, resulting an huge impact on her. This causes her her to lose something inside of her: happiness. Without not even a single smile on her face, she becomes aloof, shy, and forces herself to stay stoic. Eventually, Patina learns to break free from the effects of the situation by learning to become the person she truly wants to be.