At the park where I walk, I watch a group of kids who play there almost every day. Some are out front leading the way, some are at the back of the pack struggling to keep up and several are in the middle of the pack. I am not certain if those in the middle remain there because of ability or choice, and I wonder if they understand what they are missing by never living on the fringes. Some of my most important life lessons were learned around the edges. Whether struggling to master something that did not come easily or taking the chance to lead the group in what could have been the wrong direction, I definitely learned a lot.
“Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they live in a gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat.” I recently read this quote attributed to Theodore Roosevelt and was immediately reminded of those kids within the middle of the pack. It is pretty safe and secure in the middle of the pack. However, as the old adage states, “the greater the risk, the greater the reward.” Taking a risk presents an opportunity for failure, but it also offers the thrill of overcoming and the sweet taste of victory. Even in failure there is the opportunity for growth.
Let’s dare to do mighty things, even at the risk of failure. Life is not a spectator sport; it is meant to be lived. Dare to dream; take the steps necessary to accomplish those dreams, and if you stumble, then get up…reset your focus…and continue. There are bright, sunny days ahead!
By Janet Pratt June 2, 2017
Love all of these Barb. Thanks
By Nadeen Lester May 23, 2017
I agree — it’s important to participate, not sit on the sidelines of life. But you know, there can only be one “first chair” in the violin section of orchestra. Would the music as lovely without the players sitting a few chairs back? I like to focus on my personal best efforts, and not worry too much about who’s out in front or behind me. But then, I’m a MIDDLE child — and I like it a lot.
By Barb Cady May 24, 2017
All the chairs are indeed important in the orchestra and enrich whatever is played.
By Ron Wenberg May 15, 2017
LOVE LOVE LOVE where you stated at the end “Life is not a spectator sport”. As a kid I was constantly in and out of the hospital sick with asthma. I was so limited in what I could do growing up. I remember my mom having a fit cuz I wanted to play softball with my friends. I only had a few asthma attacks, but I did it. That’s when I decided I am NOT going to sit on the side lines and watch life go by. I AM going to be a part of that life and let others WATCH me! OK, so I’m still dealing with asthma, but I am participating in life and doing the things that I can do and not get sick. I can walk a 5 K but can’t run a marathon, so WHAT. If you do nothing you get nothing. Take a chance and step outside that box. Life is what you make of it. Once again I love this Monday Blog! I’m sending it to my members and hope they’ll all share it at chapter meetings.
By Barb Cady May 15, 2017
Fantastic personal feedback! I love how you step outside the box, Ron!