Feb 21, 2006 20:06
I love my father. I love him for the man he has made himself into, and the father everyone dreams of. Sure, at times we have our fights, but in the end I realize he loves me and would never want anything bad to happen to me. I just wanted to share some of the advice my father has given me recently because I hope that someday this advice may help you like it helps me.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Abby:
I hope that I was able to make you feel a little better last night. I know
that you were frustrated by the inability to play. But, I was proud of you
in that you cared so much about the performance of your team.
You avoided blaming people (well, you got a little frustration out about
some of the play) and turned the conversation into how you can make the
team better - like the Westover home game - and have everyone contribute.
It is easier to play when you know that at any moment all players are able
to chip in when it is needed.
When I first hurt my shoulder in 1979 and had a bad year in 1980, I thought
that my carrer was over. Only then did I appreciate how fragile an athletic
career can be - it made me rededicate myself to my chance to reach a goal.
I made the major leagues within a year.
I know that if you set your mind to it, you can get the grades, test scores
and play volleyball well enough to give you the most opportunites to be
happy and successful.
your loving dad
"Lessons to learn..
1. if you are ahead, the race is never over - compete until the final point
is won.
2. if you are behind, do not give up - at some point there may be a chance
to win, even if it looks impossible. and..the other team can do something
stupid or panic..you know how a run of points out of nowhere causes concern and doubt."