Welcome to “Athlos” a weekly Wednesday blog which replaces my previous Tuesday posts. These blogs will continue to examine pillars of personal excellence and will regularly bring together the worlds of spirituality and sport.
Two of us can talk
“If your brother wrongs you, go and show him his fault, between you and him privately…”-Matthew 18:15
Two of us can make peace
“Why doesn’t he pass the ball to me?”
Whether you are taking a “sweat” on a Sunday evening (COVID protocols permitting) or are in the final of the World Cup, participants in team sports want to be involved, play their part and showcase their skills.
For all of us who enjoy sport as recreation, we’ve seen it before, haven’t we? One player complains that another does not pass the basketball or football to them. It happens at all levels.
Recently, Paris Saint Germain (PSG) football stars Frenchman Kylian Mbappe and Brazilian Neymar Jr., apparently had a falling out of a similar kind. It has caused a minor rift, which their coach Mauricio Pochettino has labelled as a typical clash between competitors. I am less concerned about the cause of the dispute as I am about its resolution.
This is where I consider Jesus’ wise words cited above. In short, he says that if you have been offended by someone, go directly to that person and work it out. You do not gossip. Slander is not an option. Backbiting is forbidden. The pathway of integrity and courage is to have a face-to-face talk.
I will not be there to see how Mbappe and Neymar will resolve their issue. They are professionals so they will figure it out. As for me, I have to stay the course when it comes to this prudent way of making peace. Honest, direct and respectfully conversations are the way to go-just between the two of us.
Two of us can be the example
Take the direct approach to making peace with each other. It is contagious.
If you were inspired by this blog, please consider sharing it with one other person today. To learn more about these and other related themes that promote the cultivation of an integrated inner self, read UNBEATABLE! which is now available on Amazon in print and as an e-book.
