There is light at the end of the tunnel of winter’s unwelcome grasp of the past several months. Daylight savings time has arrived. Major Leagues Baseball debuts its 2025 season next week with the Dodgers and Cubs meeting in Tokyo, with baseball’s other 28 clubs swinging into action on March 27. Locally, the high school spring sports season gets underway later this month.
It seems, no matter what the time of the year, sports events hold an important place on the calendars in most American households. However, for those of the Christian faith, the arrival of the Lenten season places its followers in similarity with the objectives of successful athletes in developing self-discipline toward the achievement of personal goals.
The question of ‘What are you giving up for Lent?’ is asked at this time of the year. Abstaining from things we enjoy can be challenging. It is frequently things like chocolate, favorite foods, or beverages that head the list of items to be self-denied until Easter Day’s arrival.
While researching the subject, I came across an introspective article written by Anne Stricherz of Saint Ignatius College, reflecting upon suggestions as to what athletes could give up in their Lenten observance. A bevy of those observations follow.
Fear of failure – Failure can be a great teacher for a team, athlete, and coach. In sports, it is inevitable. Do your best, give it your all, and enjoy.
Your comfort zone – As an athlete, the only way to get to the “next level” is to expand your comfort zone. Go for it.
Feelings of unworthiness – A lack of playing time, not improving, and even injuries can cause serious doubt for an athlete. Believe in yourself.
Impatience – This one is tough; there is often little room for patience in athletics. But when improvement is slow, persevere. Be patient and trust your coach, teammates, and, most importantly, yourself.
Retirement – It’s hard for many professional athletes and coaches to know when to hang it up. There is a fine art to this. Retiring opens new chapters and opportunities; it is an example of knowing when to say when.
People pleasing – I can’t please everyone always. Pleasing yourself doesn’t mean you need to be selfish; it means you know your talents, role, and ability. Trust those.
Comparison – I have my own unique contribution to make, and there is no one else like me. Don’t compare yourself to others.
Blame – I am not going to pass the buck. I will take responsibility for my actions. Do your best. Don’t blame others for game results.
Guilt – Each day is a new day, and the past is behind us. Unfortunately, history knows the names of those who have made the “big mistakes.”
Overcommitment – Do less better and accomplish more. One sport at a time. Don’t leave one practice to work out with another team. Keep your eye on the prize.
Lack of counsel – Wise decisions are rarely made in a vacuum. Counsel does not bring physical relief, but a huge mental one.
Impurity – Keep your body free of performance-enhancing drugs. It requires tender care and respect. You only have one.
Entitlement – Playing time is a gift, your position on the team is an open door. Be grateful and help others to be thankful, too.
Apathy – Sports are meant to be a form of recreation. To not care about the game or the team is to lose sight of all it can be. Life is too short not to care.
Hatred – Do not be overcome by evil. The world is an unjust place. Let sport be a place where those feelings of disappointment and hatred are exercised out. A good coach will root it out and maintain a zero tolerance for it.
The spirit of poverty – This is one reason why we love sports. We’ve seen the athlete or the team that doesn’t have much but a whole lot of heart rise to the top.
Going through the motions – The more you invest in yourself, the more you will get back. Drills can be tedious and trying. Give it some spunk, crack a few jokes, and encourage others. It will pay dividends.
Complaining – Instead of contributing to the problem, be the solution. Rather than complain, work harder.
The pursuit of happiness – Experiencing success is more than happiness; it is joy! The joy of victory tastes so sweet. Create your own sports memories that can last a lifetime.
Lent is one week old, but regardless of one’s personal beliefs or sports involvement, choosing from the above list can help bring positive results. Plus, it’s better than giving up chocolate!
