What I Learned From Skating That Applies To Life

I am feeling quite reflective this morning for no apparent reason. So-o-o-o-o, I wanted to capture somewhere insights about skating that I don't want to forget. These are - not in order of importance - the following:

1. Goals matter. Anyone who tells you otherwise is nuts. I set my goal of going to Worlds and pursued it with something akin to laser-like precision. It was important to me to prove something to myself and I did. Goal achieved. Check that off the task list.

2. There's a BIG "I" in ice skating. One had better have the internal resources to realize that when you step out on the ice in competition, it's only you on the line. Translation: Self-reliance is of the utmost importance. Others can help you (and I've had so many who have helped me throughout my life), but at the end-of-the-day, you must develop the skills to make things happen or solve problems on your own.

3. Having a support system is critical. The things I have accomplished in my skating (as minimal as they may be) are the direct result of the polar opposite of #2 (above). I could not have gone to Worlds, or learned a change-edge spiral, or come back from injury, without people around me who were, in so many ways, with me each glide of the way. At the top of the list is DH, who 'allowed' me to return to skating, despite the danger it presents. Coach J has been my teacher, cheerleader, friend, parent. My skating buddies, especially one (you know who you are, J) have encouraged me beyond words. Having this kind of support system in life allows for those moments when your personal internal resources check-out momentarily or - frankly - you are just on overload or really don't know how to handle a situation. Cherish these relationships and treat them like the precious jewels they are.

4. Don't take yourself too seriously.At Worlds, there were parents (and skaters) who actually believe that their child is going to the Olympics. P-L-E-E-E-Z-E! While there were some great skaters there, I doubt that anyone skating ISI is really bound for stardom. I could be wrong, but I don't think so. Having the appropriate perspective about skating is critical for me. I oft times take this sport way too seriously and that takes the fun out of it. Humor and appropriate perspective are key for an enjoyable, fulfilling life.

5. Relish the time you have on this planet.We are here for a brief time. Enjoy those golden moments - like stepping on the ice and knowing you can fly - and put them in your memory book. One day when I can't skate, I will look back and be so grateful that I could.

That said, I'm off to walk our doggies in our beautiful neighborhood. I am blessed in ways beyond imagination.