Why we do what we do?

Occasionally as a teacher or a coach I ponder the question of why? On a recent long bus ride home from Marion, Kentucky I asked why? Why am I on a bus after 9:00 on a Monday night when I could be at home with my family? I believe all coaches ask that question. Some may ask more often than others. And up until this weekend I felt I had a good grasp on the answer. I often rationalize that I love the game or I love competition. Even though those answers are true, there is still something missing. I could still love the game of basketball as a fan or compete in a church league game. But why do I spend countless hours in a gym or a bus?

The answer was a little more clear after reading Lead... for God's Sake. The book revealed that I have a deeper purpose than competing. Coaches and/or teachers in order to feel complete should look for the deeper meaning of why. The book revealed that I have an opportunity everyday to make a positive impact on a player's or student's life. One that is long lasting. I could not tell you who won the state tournament three years ago but I can recall a relationship I have built with a young person and how that relationship has made them or myself better. Don't get me wrong. I still love to compete, love the game of basketball, and want to succeed at a high level, but success in God's mind is a little different than it is in ours. I learned that as long as I center everything I do around carrying out God's will, then I am surely going to be successful.

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