Some times when I sit back and think about all the things I "want" out of life I realize I am no where near my dreams or at least the "dreams" that this world finds so important. But my "wants" are not always my needs. That is not to say that what I desire from life is unattainable because I believe our dreams place in our "heart" (not the notions of dreams from the world's standards) are from God to be attained... but ultimately I rest in the fact that God has a plan for my life and I am doing all that I can to follow His plan for my life.
There are many things I could have but I have chosen a path that does not afford me all the luxuries that I see others have. But what I do have is a sense of purpose, a sense of pride in what I do and I am happy. I believe my happiness comes from following God's purpose and plan for my life. I believe when we follow the design for our lives we can not help but to be happy. I am always amazed to meet people who are unhappy... most unhappy people are that way because they choose to be, however, many have placed themselves in situations that add to their unhappiness. I am grateful that I am happy and am surrounded by people who support and encourage me in my heartfelt dreams.
I think about this now because I am hearing about so many athlete's in our volleyball community making changes from one club to another. I believe people always think the grass is greener on the other side of the fence, however, no matter where you are the grass will still needed to be maintained and mowed. But ultimately I think the decision needs to come down to where the player, the athlete, the child is treat in such a way that they are happy. What a difficult position parents find themselves in... to have to help or to make decisions for their child. But I am always amazed to see the decisions parents make to allow their child to be placed in a environment that takes away their happiness. There are different styles of coaching and different philosophies to the game but the bottom line is the child.
It is easy to get caught up with the ideas and desires we "believe" (many times we see what the rest of the world expects and make decisions based on the world's expectations) are best for us or our child but are they the design for our lives/their lives? I think there are a lot of ways to know whether or not we are following the "plan" for our lives but the bottom line is "am I happy".... is my child "happy". My hope is that as these athletes move from one club to another, from one coach to another, that they can rest assured that it is the best decision for them... are they happy and will they continue to smile when they go to practice and tournaments?
We must find the place where we are meant to be... that is when all the desires from our "heart" (not our mind) are met, that is when we see the plan for our lives become reality, that is when we, as well as the rest of the world, see what success truly is.
Rachel, I enjoyed your blog...so very true! Mari M.
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