A large portion of success in life boils down to how you live your life, or to put into sports terms, how you play the game of life. Others accuse me on a somewhat regular basis of using sports metaphors to talk about life. It is true. I think that many lessons I learned playing sports can be applied to life. Life is a game we all play. It is up to you to decide how you are going to play the game of life.
Don’t sit on the sidelines in the game of life
Whatever you decide to do – don’t be a spectator. I recommend you play the game hard and have fun along the way. Be sure to do both. In order to play the game hard, you must first play your part. I believe that life is a team sport. We enter and leave the world alone, but we spend almost all of our days with others. If you look at great teams, they are made of great players. I believe that we all have a part to play in the world.
Make your unique contribution
Each of us has different backgrounds, talents, experiences, perspectives, opinions, knowledge, skills, and ideas. It is important that you figure out what skills God has gifted to you. Each of us is unique, so I challenge you to step up and play your part. Don’t wait for others to ask for your contribution. Figure out what you have to offer, and offer it. People around you, and your “teams” will thank you later.
A player who makes a team great is more valuable than a great player. Losing yourself in the group, for the good of the group, that’s teamwork.
John Wooten, legendary college basketball coach
I am Doug Keating and this is my letter to sons.