Young Sheldon S01e22: M4a

The stated reason was “charity.” The unstated reason, which I deduced immediately, was that my mother, Mary Cooper, was attempting to fill the “God-shaped hole” in my life following my recent excommunication from the church. Her logic was that endorphins from running would replicate the spiritual euphoria of communion. This is scientifically inaccurate. Endorphins block pain. They do not provide absolution for original sin.

Later, as I cleaned my glasses, my mother sat next to me on the couch. She smelled like sweat and antiseptic. young sheldon s01e22 m4a

“It’s vanilla,” she announced, placing the ring-shaped delicacy on the counter. “Your mama’s favorite.” The stated reason was “charity

Log Entry: Post-Denominational Sunday. Location: East Texas. Threat Level: Moderate. Endorphins block pain

The race began in chaos. My father and Agent Jefferies sprinted ahead, a duel of middle-aged pride. My mother jogged beside me, attempting to explain the Trinity using the analogy of water, ice, and steam. “It’s all H2O, Sheldon,” she panted.

The turning point occurred at mile 2.4. My mother, distracted by her theological running lecture, tripped over a sprinkler head and fell. She scraped her knee. Blood, dirt, and the realization of mortality.