On the TunneySide of Sports June 29, 2020 #802 Up next… Crossing That Bridge
After further review… We all have heard of and perhaps have used the expression, “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.” It has usually meant “not to worry about a future problem” or “we’ll deal with it when it happens.” Let’s hope that high school and college athletic administrators are not taking that approach when deciding the future eligibility of student-athletes. Further, let’s hope they are ensuring health and safety with the pandemic looming.
With COVID-19 still a worrisome virus and with a concern about the 150,000-plus US deaths in just four months, how can we plan to bring athletes back to campuses and organize team sports and curtail this dreaded disease? Many questions need answering before we resume normal activities. First and foremost, normal activities will not be normal. School administrators need to plan now and not wait to cross that bridge later.
The zillions of fans waiting at home — sheltered in place — want their sports now and are not concerned about how it is done. Yes, the sports public becomes greedy when you take away what has kept them happy. But first and foremost, we must all stay the course to ensure player and student safety. We’re all in this together! You’ve heard that for the last four months.
More importantly, what a pandemic can teach us is to not wait for happiness that comes with the sports and social events we enjoy. Find it in everyday moments. Appreciate the preciousness of a child’s laugh, the dedication of health care providers and first responders, the empathy of a community, and especially the shared love of family and friends. Once you do, no matter amid the best or worst of your days, you will understand the love that lies within.
The lesson we take from this lack of control is to cherish every moment, even the little ones. We don’t have to wait for “play ball” or the referee’s whistle to start the game. Let’s do whatever we can to make our lives, and those around us, better each day. I pray you will be free from the grip of COVID-19. You must believe there will be a day again when you can fully live, not merely survive; and where there is room and a need to enjoy your favorite sport.
Will you make the most of your time during this pandemic to be positive and productive?
– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –
