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KIDS OF CHARACTER 8/10/2009
Making The Most Of One's Self At ninety-five years young, Coach John Wooden is a national character mentor. Clearly, Wooden's knowledge of basketball is eclipsed by his knowledge of the game of life. A few years ago, I listened to him field questions about the game of life and how to play it. He revealed a depth of insight and understanding into how to use college athletics as a preparation ground to raise up men and women of character who will be prepared to meet life's challenges with a life values philosophy. Mr. Wooden carved out his life values philosophy at an early age. In his opening remarks he talked about his dad's influence. As a twelve-year old John was graduating from a country grade school in Indiana. His father gave him a creed which he has tried to live by ever since. Coach Wooden calls his creed: Making The Most of One's Self:
Appreciating Mr. Wooden's life wisdom, I was once again struck by an axiom that I believe is critical to the shaping of all kids of character. The axiom is this: It isn't enough to appreciate someone else's life values, what matters is defining and applying yours. To become a kid of character demands that we get guidance from others that will help us define our own values. Then comes a big step which I believe does need to happen in our teen years…making a commitment to our life own values and wrestling with them daily.
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