"Anything is Possible"

My oldest daughter moved out of our home and town about 1½ years ago. We are so proud of her for taking that leap, but we miss her sunny face! She is coming home for a week, so I was tidying up her bedroom. I glanced above a door in her room and noticed a simple wooden sign she had there forever, it simply reads “Anything is Possible”. I am proud of all my kids, but this brought back a few memories of her.

One memory is of her ability to conquer obstacles makes me smile. She was in 5th grade and trying out for the basketball team. It didn't occur to us that she may not make the team, she was an energetic and active girl. But that dreaded moment came…the coach said she could be on the team if she wanted but she wasn't cut out for basketball and would sit on the bench. I appreciated his honesty and willingness to let her participate, however, we didn’t know what the experience would be for her. Ultimately, we let her make the decision and she chose to be on the team. I appreciate that the coach gave her the opportunity and that we allowed it!

She never complained, in fact, she loved it. She was a very social girl and we thought being with her friends after school every day would be enough to gain from that team experience. Much to our surprise, toward the end of the season, we began to see her actually play in games. We enjoyed watching her play…she was tough, tiny, and could get around anyone! What she lacked in skill, she made up for in determination, grit, and infectious energy. I recall a few times me and a friend covering our eyes watching her go up against girls more than twice her size… with a little too much bravery!

We recall the coach walking over to us at the last game…he was laughing and smiling. In a heartwarming moment, he said she defied his odds, and he was wrong about her (one of the first and infrequent times a coach admitted he was wrong to us…that’s another story though!).

She played basketball through 8th grade. In high school, in the same competitive, fun-loving spirit she swam, played lacrosse and water polo, then water polo in college. And now, living in a big city with an amazing job and group of friends! Always keeping the spirit in anything she does as “Anything is Possible!”

Although this story is about my oldest daughter and a sweet tale from her childhood, I am proud of all my kids. Given the chance, they are defying the odds in some way or another…life, sports, school, jobs, friendships, etc. It hasn’t been an easy road for any of them (or us!), with a few turns on bumpy side roads, mixed in with some heartache.

When things aren’t going as you or your children hoped, don’t give up. Their journeys may be winding and filled with challenges. But given the opportunity, they will surprise you along the way, defy their own obstacles and achieve their own greatness.

And, to all those coaches out there, thank you for sharing your time to help develop our young children. I know it's not easy, but please remember to give kids a chance. Remember, sometimes it is those who seem least likely to succeed that may be your biggest surprise and will prove to you that "Anything is Possible".

"First say to yourself what you would be, and then do what you have to do."

-Epictetus