No Need to be Sorry
“You are the sky. Everything else is just the weather.” – Pema Chodron
This past weekend, my wife and I made the 3-hour journey from San Antonio to Waco. Given that our daughter Helena is a junior in high school, this is the third year we’ve attended the state dance competition.
The Antonian Dance Team performed their best, but they fell a bit below their own expectations. The girls are super-competitive, and it seems that anything below first place is hard to accept.
However, I take a totally different perspective to the situation.
I played high school athletics, competing in football, basketball, and baseball. I was also fortunate to play collegiate baseball, although my playing time was limited.
For me, athletics was a game-changer. All the practices and tough game situations gave me a strong will to persevere. The tough losses along the way reinforced the importance of getting back on my feet and working even harder to be victorious.
Thus, when our dance team fell short of earning a top spot, I was okay with it. I am 100% sure these setbacks will someday yield positive results for the girls as they encounter even bigger challenges in life.
So, after the competition, I did what any other caring parent would do … I hugged Helena, kissed her, and told her how much I love her.
Back to the story …
No Need to be Sorry
The competition began at 9 am, so my wife and I decided to visit a local diner for breakfast.
Yes … there was breakfast available at our hotel, but there is something about going on a little date together.
We were seated at a table, and within a few minutes, our waitress had taken our drink order. My wife Dulce ordered hot tea, and I ordered coffee with iced water.
To my left, I observed a table with three men who were there before us. From what I could determine, they had yet to be served, and I was wondering when one of them would complain. The restaurant had a very light crowd, so it had nothing to do with being busy.
Eventually, after about 10 minutes, one of the waitresses made it to their table and said …
“I’m sorry you had to wait.”
One of the gentlemen said, “There’s no need to be sorry. We would like the following …”
I found this approach impressive and refreshing. It was no big deal they had to wait for their drinks. They were fine carrying on a friendly conversation, and there was no reason to make a big deal out of it.
So … I Learned …
As I reflect on the Waco competition, I am reminded that we have just one more year to make this trip, as Helena has just one more year left of high school.
I also learned that the biggest role I can play for our children is to be their cheerleader. Sure … I want them to earn the best possible outcome, but when they fall short, I need to step it up and be more present in their lives.
Although the complimentary hotel breakfast is good, having a little date with my wife is even more worthwhile.
Finally, by going on this early morning date with Dulce, I learned an important lesson … don’t get too flustered when stuff does not happen according to my schedule.
It’s far better to be on God’s time … there is less to worry about when He is in charge.
Inspiring Quotes
“Calmness is the cradle of power.” – Josiah Gilbert Holland
“Opportunity seldom rises with blood pressure.” – Jarod Kintz
Homework Inquiry
During the next week, here’s your homework inquiry: How will you realize peace?
I use this opportunity to share with you a unique story and a couple inspiring quotes. Oh ... as a professor at heart, you guessed it, I have a homework inquiry for you. This is a powerful question that might just trigger you to take action on something that really matters in your life. If you feel the Catalyst Newsletter brings benefit to you.