REFLECTION

REFLECTION ~ WHAT PICKLEBALL MEANS TO THOSE WHO LOVE AND PLAY THE SPORT

Pickleball is not just a game, its life in a microcosm played out in  an 11 point contest of wills, wits and endurance. Pickleball  has the same highs and lows, successes and failures, rewards and disappointments that we experience in our day to day trials and tribulations.

But for many, Pickleball is the shining beacon of hope, peace and tranquility, that we look forward to enjoying. This "simplistic pastime is our escape from the worries and unfulfilled expectations of reality. But it comes with a price tag.

That price tag is uncontrollable mental and physical addiction. Our minds crave the strategical stimulation, and our bodies are fueled by quickness of motion that strains our muscles to perform that which we thought was impossible.

It is on these hallowed courts,  that we are freed  from  inhibitions and can return to that child-like euphoria of our youth.  .

Often we take for granted, and cast a blind eye, towards the play by play nuances, occurring during each rally.  We focus only on winning or losing the point. And not that which transpires between the service and the point.  All because of our overwhelming desire to win.

We deny ourselves a split second of approval to  relish the thrill of a good shot. We then waste precious time contemplating a flawed performance. Never realizing, that even a fouled  ball, can be a pleasing experience.  Just being in the here and now, doing that which is near and dear to our hearts, is reward enough.

Learn to cherish and appreciate each and every second that you partake in this fickled fun time.  There is no such thing as a bad day on the court. Each and every game is a blessing and a gift from life itself, whether we win or loose.

For most, these words will have little meaning and lack the provocation of serious thought . ; '  until the remorseful day arrives when you no longer can engage in this child-like behavior. It is then,  and only then, dear friends that we will come to understand the real joy of facing an opponents on the other side of the net. .

So take to the court and play each game as if it was your last. For it may well be!  Enjoy each move and counter move you make, excite with your play of the ball. Play each rally to its fullness, from service to point, Care not the loss of a point, care only that you gave it your all.  And last, but not least, celebrate you losses as much as your wins. failures are life's lessons learned before success can be achieved.