I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands

“I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back.”

—Maya Angelou, late American memoirist, poet, and civil rights activist

Image from Unsplash by Chris Chow

Baseball is an interesting metaphor for life.

A high percent of the game is focused on the pitcher/catcher exchanges. With fast balls clocking in at up to 100 miles per hour, the catcher clearly needs a very cushioned mitt to avoid serious injury. Without a free hand to return the ball to the pitcher, the game would grind to a halt.

The umpire plays an important role in calling balls and strike, assessing each throw offered to the batter for consideration. If the batter takes too many strikes, they’re out of there.

EXERCISE:

What is your current ratio of catching to throwing in your personal and professional communities?

What adjustments between taking and giving will help you win more of the games you currently play?

“No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave.”

“No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave.”

– Calvin Coolidge, 30th President of the United States

Who are the most honorable people you know and admire? Take a moment and look at the people in your life that you respect and value.

Look at famous people, past and present, great leaders, and humanitarians – you know, the “Who’s Who” of mankind. Notice what contributions they made to others, to their communities, and to the world.

Exercise:

How will you use your day to give and contribute more?

Don’t be surprised if you happen to receive wonderful things in return.