Words To Live By

There are so many more poignant and inspirational quotes on perseverance, but sometimes this simple bit of advice is the only one that rings true.

I had fifteen heart attacks watching Andy Murray fight for the Wimbledon title on Sunday. And oh did he fight!  When that last point was played, with the whole crowd chanting his name in a last ditch effort to hold on, I may have let a cascade of curse words fly out (which I probably owe my neighbors an apology for, I’m certain I was heard within a five mile radius, at least). And when he cried during his runner-up speech, I cried right along with him.  There was barely a dry eye at centre court, we truly needed a group hug after that match.

I don’t usually get emotional over sports outcomes, but I know what that moment feels like. When you want something with your whole heart, give it every ounce of effort, start to believe that this time it is happening, get so close to your goal you can feel your fingertips brush against it for an instant, crawl, and curse, and claw for every inch… and lose.

I’m pretty sure there are only two kinds of people in the world, those who know exactly what that feels like, and those who are going to find out, sooner or later. Every time I watch someone in that moment, I’m overcome. There is nothing to say to make it better. Nothing to do but have a cry, a drink, and a good rest.

So, my dear friends, when you are having that moment in your own life, remember that it happens to the best of us and you’ll be better for it in the end, just don’t let the bastards get you down.

Now let’s make this a great week!