Pickleball is a game that has exploded across the nation quite expeditiously. It is a sport that is favored by all ages which enhances community and strengthens wellness. Neighborhoods, church groups, and even tourists are showing up in communities with a paddle in hand and a smile on their faces; eager to play.
As an educator, I’ve always said, “Laziness is not attractive.” As a coach, I’ve always quoted John Maxwell, “Teamwork makes the dream work.” As a Christian, I believe we are all destined for great things, but we must take the necessary time to think about how we show up each day. Do we prepare, do we practice, do we pray, do we persistently put intentional action toward our goals? Basically, you can’t move forward while sitting still. I personally believe there is a time to sit, a time to listen, and a time to move forward.
Former pro tennis player, Roger Federer stated, “When I miss a shot, it is in the past. Then, I focus on the next shot.” If we spend too much time focused on our past or the last shot, we limit our potential for success.
It has been said that sports can bring out the worst in people! “Do you ever question an opponent’s calls, dislike the back-and-forth banter, or simply detest playing with lower-level players?” Let me ask you this question, “Do you sometimes feel as though you require regular cleansing to soften your character? Do you ever feel as though you are viewed as rigid or rough around the edges? If so, loosen up! Fill yourself with a gallon of laughs. Soak your mind in the depths of a good book or a good worship. Move to another ‘cycle of life’ that is truly gentle and produces a softer appearance for others to notice. Iron out the negativity and pressures in life while enjoying the peace that only our Lord, God can offer” (Rogers, 2025). As noted in Hebrews 12:14, “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”