February 9th, 1980 was the beginning of many new facets for me. At 11, I was just your typical 6th grader. Maybe a little more comfortable with being a loner, but a new beginning was about to happen that I was not expecting in any way.
On February 9th, Russia took on our young Olympic hockey team, and as reports say, annihilated them.
Two weeks later, on February 22nd, I heard USA! USA! USA! echoing throughout the house, and went to investigate. As I remember the day, it was warmer than usual and Dad had been working outside. When I walked into the living room he told me that he had almost missed out on his plan to come in and watch the US versus USSR hockey match. Knowing the tensions that we had with Russia, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to stay and watch as well.
Needless to say, I found out about teamwork, sportsmanship, and patriotism in that hour and some. To this day, I blame them for my passion for basketball, supporting our troops in the good and bad, and taking my moment to live the dream. Even if my dream changes from year to year.
I never fail to feel the hum of excitement anytime I revisit that day, or research any aspect of the team. I am forever indebted to that group of men who had a vision and stayed Coach Brooks’ course.
I am forever building my life with the intent of reliving that joy through actions of my own making. Three decades ago – basketball. Two – college and soon after gaining my first teaching job. Now… writing for publication and taking the best darn action photos I can for my students to look back on as part of their personal history.
Pride is deep within each, but joy is the crux of it all.
What defining moments are yours?
Take a moment. Don’t rush the answer.
Choose wisely. Ponder it for a while, and find the joy in the moment.
There… don’t you just feel the breath of fresh air that never fails to amaze you?
Absorb that joy and make it yours.
Mine is going to take me into dreamland with a smile.
Take care one and all.
Good morning, goodnight wherever you are!
Kath
BaconfortheBrain 