Lessons Learned from Playing in the Rain

A dedicated group of parents sat in the rain for the past two days as we watched our sons play lacrosse.   One lacrosse mom asked her husband if they'd be watching the game if we were back in Houston, rather than on a road trip.  He answered that when the guys are playing, he'll be there.  This sentiment is widely shared by this devoted parent group.  How I wish every child had parent advocates like these!

A few things from this weekend that we could add to the lacrosse manual:

• It's amazing how quickly fashion takes a backseat to function and practicality when the skies open.
• Ideal conditions aren't required when we're supporting those we love.
• Fond memories are made when friends are together.
• Unless there's lightning, the game will go on.
• The beautiful rainbow is a reward for time spent in the rain.

Warmth Within

Houston's unseasonably cold temperatures are raising heating challenges around the city.  Three distinct challenges surfaced in my environs.

The heating system in my office wasn't working properly on Friday.  It's hard to send an email when you're wearing gloves.  On Saturday morning, the sound of a blown transformer got me out of my warm bed to investigate.  The repairs were made quickly and our neighborhood's power was restored within an hour and a half.  On Sunday, everyone at church was wearing coats during the entire service.  The HVAC system is being replaced and there was no heat in the sanctuary.

In each case, warm attitudinal accommodations for the inconveniences transformed chilly physical conditions. Guess I needed three chances to remember that how we respond to a situation makes an enormous difference.