To be fully engaged in an activity means to be present in this moment and in what you are doing right now. It also means to be completely content in that experience. There is no anxiousness about or sense of longing for the future, and there is no regret about the past.

Imagine that. The greatest players on the greatest team ever after a big win. They celebrate with family and press, they reflect on the hard work that got them there and the hard work ahead.

Then they sweep.

“It isn’t the mountain ahead that wears you out; it’s the grain of sand in your shoe.”

―Robert W. Service

When my son went off to college and then after one year enlisted in the United States Navy. Between care packages and letters I don’t think there was ever a lack. There were letters that I wrote. Letters I didn’t write. And letters I had wished I had written. No I don’t think it’s too late. The recording of this episode and all episodes go into Time in a bottle. This is that letter.

It felt like something was nearing its end. I had this feeling. A premonition that someone was about to decide that my time was up. After 21 years with the company, what did I need to be overly concerned about?

Taking your dog on an extra long walk today or listening to some of your favorite music--whatever brings you joy, indulge yourself (because after all, "you deserve" what makes you happy!). You'll be glad you did when everything starts looking brighter again.

The struggle against an obstacle inevitably propels the fighter to a new level of functioning. The extent of the struggle determines the extent of the growth. The obstacle is an advantage, not adversity. The enemy is any perception that prevents us from seeing this.

My parents were not the cheerleader-type, and they never attended my games. They probably doubted I was any good or would amount to anything. As I got older, my competitive spirit led me to specialize in a few sports and to focus on becoming the best player that I could be. And now, as a certified Tennis professional and competitor, doubt still fuels me.

Today let go of old thoughts and beliefs about yourself so that they don’t hold down all the good things coming into your life soon enough.

So take care in who you decide to share your secrets with because at some point they may become necessary pieces for someone else's puzzle- but only if you're willing to give them up willingly without fear or reservation.