Here is What You Tell Your Kids

Here is what you tell your kids.

You can run faster than you ever have but come in second.

You can play the perfect game of chess but have no choice to resign.

You can do your best but still lose.

That is the test life gives you.

The lesson is how you respond.

Do you walk over to the winner; shake his or her hand and say, “Good game?”

Do you hold up your chin, accept the set back, and try again?

Or do you sulk? Do you claim it was unfair?

Do you lash out and blame others around you?

This morning, my son asked what the election means. I said that it is an opportunity for people to set aside their faith in institutions and try placing their faith in their neighbors again.

Two sides have tried to force their way down the other’s throats for 16 years.

It has left our country torn, bitter, and unquestionably jaded.

Our job is to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat. Always.

I also mentioned that it is never a good idea to count your chickens before they hatch.

Life has a way of teaching many lessons.