It's been a while since I've chatted with my friend "Blog," and where did they come up with the term "blog?" Never the less, with the birth of our second grandchild (1st grandson, Luke) and Christie being on maternity leave I have been somewhat thrust back into the busy-ness of the responsibilities that go along with coaching.
A few days ago, as I was trying to get things ready for the trip to the state meet, I found myself in almost a state of panic at the thought of not getting some things done, coupled with the fear that I had forgotten to take care of some typical necessary paperwork. It was an all too clear reminder of how busy head coaches are. I found myself somewhat ashamed that I had allowed myself to forget that toward the end of the time I spent as athletic director. I was as bad as any other administrator at being pretty dull to the fact that head coaches try to cram 30 hours of work into a 24 hour day. I kept asking myself "how in the world does Christie do it along with teaching multiple English classes." And even as busy as I was, it was exhilarating! I was enjoying myself more than I had in years.
I have since thought much of that moment, and have continue to find myself pondering an encouraging suggestion that I use to offer teams; "enjoy the journey." I had mixed emotions as I thought through those three words. Enjoy the Journey... sounds so profound. I remember being very sincere when talking through this with teams. "Men this is not all about the end result. Sure you will remember some of the wins and losses, but you will always remember the relationships, learning to work hard, the meaning of sacrifice and all the other things that make up this journey." And yet as I thought through this here at (at least) the early dusk of a career I felt sad and somewhat remorseful for not heeding my own advice. Often times as I reflect of my time as a head coach and athletic director I remember so many times I was wishing for the next break. As I was visiting with my good friend Larry Gnatzig (another retire-rehire coach) about this, his immediate response was "why should we look forward to breaks now, hell our life is a break!" I'm sure it's easier for me to enjoy the journey now more than "back then" because I have time to do so.
One thing I know for sure is that whether I'm in the midst of "busy-ness" or standing around enjoying a track meet, or doing (sometimes seemingly senseless) paperwork, I can truly think of no profession better suited for me. I am grateful that God led me to this place and thank Him for the Journey!
So glad to have you back.
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