On Memorial Day We Remember

On Memorial Day we remember. I’m certainly not the only one who has spent the last ten weeks sorting through old pictures, cleaning out long neglected storage rooms and taking long strolls down memory lane. In many ways this time has been extraordinarily meaningful, an easy time to question, a unique opportunity to really ponder about so much, what is in a life, why do we become who we are, what and who are our influencers? With so many restrictions and changes, it sometimes becomes easier to quit than to persevere. I am me because of so many and today I choose to remember those who inspired me to never give up.

• My Mom, now 90 years young, who has more internal strength than any human being I know has inspired me to be determined

• My Grandma who told me everyday that girls can do anything, continues to inspire me to stay on my path

• My coaches who pushed me through disappointment and celebrated my successes inspired me to be true to myself

• Every 5 year old I have had the honor to introduce to the game of tennis and watch light up the first time they hit a ball over the net has inspired me to be open minded and have a sense of humor

• Every high school player who gave it their all for the team has inspired me to have faith in humankind

• Every adult who was brave enough to take up the sport has inspired me to be patient and understanding

• Every USTA team that shared a winning season with me has inspired me to understand the meaning of pride and meaningful relationships

• Every doubles player who is now willing to give singles a try has inspired me to look more deeply at my own lack of courage

• My childhood hero, Chris Evert who played hard every shot of her career has deeply inspired me to be in the moment of every moment

• My Dad who told me to follow my heart and do what I love, that tennis brings me happiness and contentedness, to trust myself and to dream big because I can do anything

The profession of tennis is ever changing, the last ten weeks has hammered that home, but the magnificent game of tennis is a constant, it continues to bring us joy, fitness, competition and friendship. In a time when it sometimes feels overwhelming to get back on the court, … dig deep, think of who inspired you to never give up.

On Memorial Day we remember.

See you on the courts!

Barb

This is a very timely article that was in the Washington Post

• "Chris Evert Played Tennis With a Patience That is in Current Demand"