We've had some similar discussions on HSBBW before. However, I realize our boys are continuously entering different parts of their journey as time passes. It might be helpful to some to reflect on that journey despite where your player is now..... middle school, HS, pro...

I went to see my son's intrasquads Thurs. He told me when I took him to dinner how there's a group of male students that are usually there, bring their gloves, and then throw with each other after the game. He explained how watching them reminded him how lucky he is to be on the inside of the fence.

I went on to explain he's not there because he's lucky, but because he's who he is. He's a good ball player, a determined ball player, and a dedicated student of the game. However, I am a person that also believes we achieve greatness by our faith in God and trusting his plan.

What has helped your son achieve his goals thus far?

Interesting question.

I guess I kind of throw the term luck around rather loosely. When I say it, it sometimes means the opportunities that present themselves when you had no reason to expect how things might go. I think the way your son used the term was thankful. Maybe it is fate as well. Whatever it is, there will be challenges to overcome no matter how talented an individual is. Here is an article from our local paper this morning by a fine writer regarding young pro prospects and the draft. Can you tell who in the article is lucky?

http://www.news-herald.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=1720508...&dept_id=21848&rfi=6

Lafmom,
Good thought provoking post!

I changed the use of lucky to fortunate. Though I don't know if there is a difference.
As I look back, fortunate that son inherited the height on my side of the family, but unfortunate he didn't get the left hand genes from his father's side (or was he unlucky).

I too strongly believe that g-d has a plan for every individual. It's what you do with that plan that counts in the end.

But I also believe that no matter how fortunate or lucky you are, circmstances might stand in the way of you achieving your goal (as in the article CD posted), no matter how lucky or fortunate you are.

lafmom,

That is a great question.

IMO - Sometimes you learn alot about your kids just by watching.

Of course - hard work is a prerequisite for any success (unless you are playing the lottery or in a casino).

But beyond that - I think the single determining factor in his own personal success has been a steadfast belief in himself.

I think a real athlete - in any sport - needs to fully understand that for every person that thinks the athlete is good - there are 5 who will try to knock him down. Sometimes a little - and sometimes alot. Sometimes out of jealousy, sometimes out of politics/money - or sometimes just for the heck of it. LOL

The one thing my son has always said to me about the commentaries (good or bad) is pretty simple - but so very true.

"Dad - they aint playing - they are just talking". LOL

How very true and to the point.

A steadfast belief in himself - I think that has been most important for him.

Good thoughts folks!

CD - Thanks for sharing that article. It certainly illustrates some of what my thoughts were this morning. Would you say Guthrie is lucky? Probably.... he's having a chance that most only dream of. Would you say Sowers is lucky? Probably.... he's having a chance that most only dream of and he's made the most of that opportunity. Would you say Guthrie is talented? I would... but for some reason he hasn't been able to get it done. Would you say Sowers is talented? I would... proof is in the pudding. What's been the difference in their success?

I think at any level, there are so many factors to being successful that it's mindboggling! I don't really believe in luck per say, but do believe in blessings. I also believe that when given an opportunity in life, you'd better make the most of it. I also believe that being successful in anything may mean sacrifices and it surely means hard work. I think it also means what Itsagreatgame touches on.... believing in one's self!!! A very important ingredient IMO!