The Power of Words

I don’t think he ever truely understood.

He was a sports’ fanatic.  He worked a lot of hours, but every free moment was centered around ‘the next game.’      He loved to listen to baseball, and was always the first to volunteer to coach the local little league.

He played to win, and always brought out the best in his players.

Only one problem………………….. his energy was focused soley on the players who had the natural talent, ‘the gifted’ if you will.

He had little time or patience for the fledgling,
     the mediocre,
           the second string.

His words of praise were reserved
     for the select,
          the superstars,
               the winners.

“Keep your eye on the ball!
“What are you swinging at?
“Stand closer to the plate!

were all too often spoken,
     to the not-so-talented.

He was excited,
    he was passionate,
and as I said,
         he played to WIN.

He was my  father,  a great man.
He was their for many,
    but………..when it came to sports,  I was the untalented,  I was the mediocre, I was second-string.

I’m sure,
He never really understood, the power of his words, and how much they shaped my life.

One thing I do know,

I know, first hand.      Words are extremely powerful !!
Words can raise you up
or
they can crush you.

Positive and uplifting words,  spoken to us,  or spoken to ourselves,  can make ‘all the difference.’ 

I live my life trying to be a positive example,
to speak only in kindness,   and
to provide value to everyone I meet.

Thanks to all who have contributed to my success, by the praise, encouragement and by “the power of your kind words.”

Bill