The Clemson Light of Inspiration
Clemson beats Alabama for the national title in the exciting last few seconds. Clemson Coach Dabo Swinney responding to an ESPN reporter about the win: “I told these young men to ‘let the light that is in you shine brighter than the light that shines on you.'”
That comment immediately resonated with me, knowing that these warriors on the gridiron are exposed to extreme outside scrutiny from the press, fans, and NFL teams. Coach Swinney knows that success comes from playing, not for the crowd, nor glory, but for the team, focusing on personal best effort. Inspiring his young men to focus on team values moves them away from pride and self absorption and towards almost superhuman effort.
The faith of Coach Swinney speaks to his motivation to build strong relationships and servant leadership. His words and actions prepare these men for life, for the successes and failures which will certainly come.
I want to follow God’s game plan for life. I don’t know about you, but on occasion that outside influence of the world wants to sneak back into my life. How am I trying to keep that light burning on the inside that Coach talked about? Here is the short version:
- Detail values in writing — with scriptures attached. I was able to outline 12 values which I believe are in line with Christ’s teaching regarding work, relationships, money, health and practicing a faith walk. They are a reference point.
- Realize that I am made in God’s image, that He loves me–reading the scriptures and prayer reinforce that relationship.
- Choose to think on “things above” (Colossians 3:1-2 NIV), and to renew my mind constantly with a good dose of humility (Romans 12:1-4 NIV).
Coach Swinney replying to another reporter, “How do you keep it together through these tough games.”: ” The guys love each other; we love each other.” Coach knows that his kids are imperfect. But he has given to them a formula that will carry them through life.
Blessings to you for 2017
