I coached rec league soccer for fifteen years. From kindergarteners to seniors in high school. Boys and girls. Experienced players and newcomers. I think if you asked the parents whose kids were on our teams, they would tell you that I was usually patient and compassionate. Occasionally I had to be strict. Sports were vehicles…
On this Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, a time of remembrance, reflection and hope for unity; I remember a moment that changed my life forever. A Long Way From Home A dozen years ago, my colleague and I traveled along North Tryon Street just after 5 pm on a Tuesday afternoon. We turned into a…
On a chilly Saturday morning just a few weeks ago, I participated in a tree planting event at a CMS Middle School. On that morning in December, my hope was renewed once again. It was a day that just made me feel good. Trees Charlotte The event was coordinated by a non-profit organization called Trees…
Jimmy Carter, former President of the United States died this week. Because of the extensive media coverage, we all had a chance to look once more at the life, legacy and history of this remarkable man. In my never-ending search for role models, former President Carter is certainly high on the list. A leader. A…
Early in my time coaching kids’ basketball and soccer, after devoting much time and energy to practice and games; I asked myself if the time and effort were worth it. I asked myself if I was making a difference. I wondered, if like a box of Cracker Jack, there was a prize somewhere inside. Now,…
In current parlance, I am working to “declutter” my garage. I am working to get rid of things I no longer need. In that effort, I have re-discovered some treasures. Recently, I uncovered a set of golf clubs once owned by our uncle who passed away almost twenty years ago. I inherited them and they…
In Take Them by the Hand, I wrote: I was going through security at a major airport not long after 9/11. Asked to empty my pockets by the security agent; I placed my car keys, loose change, money clip and comb in the plastic dish as directed. The security agent looked at the contents of…
Along my journey, I have relied on the story of David and Goliath often and for many purposes. Not only is it a wonderful story full of many lessons, but it is also a story that everyone knows. You can use it with almost any group and the audience “gets it”. While there is a…
On many occasions, coaching kids has given me perspective on the world around us. Sometimes explaining things to young kids helps me understand the path forward. This week, I had one of those moments. A Fairy Tale When I coached my first soccer team of micros (mostly kindergartners) I wondered if they really understood the…
Recently I went on a hiking trip to Montana. Two separate day hikes of ten miles each in Glacier National Park gave me opportunity to experience some of the most beautiful country in the United States. Breathtaking vistas, glorious vegetation and fascinating wildlife. Each day I accompanied a small group of similarly experienced hikers to…