Why did you give up? That sure is a deep question and one that perhaps you’ve been asked or asked yourself in the past. And, I’m not sure there is one perfect answer to cover it. Maybe you were tired, maybe you had exhausted all possibilities, maybe the world was stacked up against you, maybe there just didn’t seem to be a point in trying anymore, or maybe you gave up for another reason that makes sense. Could be any or all of those things, but I will say that if you are like me, it doesn’t come easy and it very rarely is permanent. Some of us are just wired differently.

I love the quote by Muhammed Ali which is “If you even dream of beating me, you better wake up and apologize”. Any of you have that level of confidence, that level of commitment, that level of swagger, that level of resolve? Truth is, I sure do, but not always right at first. Sometimes it takes inspiration and encouragement from others. In the past this has come from coaches, friends, and most recently my oldest son. I won’t go into the details, but in the midst of a personal pity party he basically told me and I’m paraphrasing, to remember who I was and who I taught him to be. Looking back, it might have been one of the most powerful moments I’ve experience with regard to resolve. He reminded me that even when we feel that we are at our lowest we can pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and get back in the game.

I guess you could say that is why I’m using this week’s post to be about not giving up. And, I’m thankful that I get to give a shout out to an amazing young man that is now teaching his Dad about life. So cool when it comes full circle and is a true blessing.

So where are you on all of this? Did you give up on something you wish you hadn’t? Is there still time to get back in the game? If so, why aren’t you doing it? Think about the words a 21 year old gave me. Remember who you are. And, remember life isn’t always a straight line. Perhaps this is a message to pick up where you left off. Perhaps this is a message to start your fight for what you want. Or, perhaps it’s just a reminder that who you are is someone far stronger than you can imagine and you can do anything if you keep going, keep trying, and keep believing.

Take some time today to reflect on all of this and let it serve you well. And, if you see someone struggling around you or know of someone who gave up too soon in the past encourage them to get back in the game and tell them to remember who they are!