Keep Moving and Improving

DON'T QUIT WHEN THE BALL ROLLS BETWEEN YOUR LEGS Several years ago, my son Dylan and I were watching a Little League Baseball game. His team was to play the winner on the following day. Well, the game was in the bottom of the ninth inning with two outs and the score tied. The batter hit the ball into right field and the outfielder let the ball roll between his legs. When the outfielder turned to retrieve the ball, he was only half jogging because, in his mind, the game was over because of his mistake. Dylan and I looked at each other in shock because it was obvious the outfielder should have at least given some effort. He not only gave up on himself but on the team and everyone in the stands. Now, I know that’s a harsh statement since he’s only a kid, and it happens to every baseball player. But here’s the lesson in life that I explained to Dylan. Just like in sports, there will be times in life where you’ll let the ball roll between your legs. You’ll want to give up and walk away because it’s easier than sucking it up and fighting your way back in the game. The one thing we can all do — is quit. But, what truly separates winners from losers is the will to never give up. We are not going to win every game. We will have failed relationships, experience the death of a loved one and face unemployment. Believe me, I’ve experienced all three. Yes, I wanted to curl up, give up and hope everything would just fade away. But, I had many long talks with myself in the mirror challenging my character. I had the responsibility of being a single parent, and there’s more at stake than my selfishness. There are many of you currently dealing with these challenging life experiences. Look, take a few deep breathes and allow internal wounds to heal. Take these situations and make it strengthen your life. So come on, don’t half jog, and start sprinting to the ball because you’re going to make the winning throw in this game of life