In this year I’ve learned the value of a loss. Throughout life we encounter losses that we need to grow stronger. Chickenpox, teeth, love; the shared experience of a “loss” teaches us and gives clarity in our lives. Sure I wish that life was win, Win, WIN, but we all know thats utopian at best. So how do you conquer a L? Well in my last blog as a Challenge Detroit Fellow I will tell you.
As I watched the NBA Finals I saw Cleveland pummeled into a 3-1 deficit against the champion Golden State Warriors. As we often times in life do I believed it was over for Lebron and the Cavaliers. At times in my life I’ve felt as if I’m going against Steph Curry and The Warriors. The opposition seems invincible and regardless of the great shots I take, the great defense I play; life can throw unbelievable shots regardless of how I defend. Regardless of how ridiculous this shot is it goes in and that pain is the same pain you see in Tristan Thompson’s face when he’s isolated with Steph.
Almost defeated, Lebron and the Cavs come back from 3-1 to when off of two magnificent plays…
As the ball was outlet to Steph who passed the perfect bounce pass to Iggy I knew Cleveland was over…until Lebron happened. Not giving up on the play, believing in himself, simply trying to do the best he could, Lebron was able to stop all his pain. While that pain comes as a fast break layup for King James…that pain has always been disbelief in myself.
As they went down to the other side and the ball was outlet to Kyrie I knew he was taking the shot. His confidence, his talent, his belief that he deserved to be here let him know that he should take his shot. On the right wing in front of a 3-1 deficit, the greatest team ever, and the two time and Unanimous MVP Kyrie pulled up and took a chance. He could have played it safe and called time out. He could have asked for a timeout. Instead he had confidence that all his hard work had paid off and now was the time to show it. He took his shot
While drenched in champagne and championship paraphernalia Kyrie was asked how they 3 back from a 3-1 deficit. His words taught me about loss and the beauty in it…
“We didn’t come in thinking about winning three straight. We just needed one game, one day, one day at a time. Yea we lost by 30. We proved you can win after a loss. One day at a time.
Love Y’all. Thanks for Everything.