Thursday; January 3

          Over the last few weeks I have been reading Tony Dungy’s book, “Quiet Strength:  The Principles, Practices, and Priorities of a Winning Life”.  As a football fan I have really enjoyed getting to know more about the backstory of the NFL, but there is something even more special about this book – the life of the author.  I didn’t know much about Coach Dungy before reading the book (other than there was something special about him); but his biography has been a blessing to me.  I have made note of several quotes, but there is one underlying message throughout the book that is summed up in the phrase, “No excuses, no explanations”.  This became his philosophy for his teams – but, more than that, it became a foundational principle for his life.
          As I read the book I got to thinking about how easy it is to make excuses and offer explanations for why things didn’t turn out the way we intended.  We can always find a way to blame others (or circumstances) for our failures and flaws, but when we do, we give control of our lives over to someone or something else.  It is only when we show personal accountability and accept personal responsibility for our choices that will be empowered to do great things. 
Do we believe that we have been called to make a difference?  If so, this philosophy must become embedded in our thinking.  Our job is to influence the world not to come up with reasons why we can’t or excuses for why we didn’t.  Are we ready to accept the challenge we have been given?
Let’s be purposeful in living our lives.  No excuses, no explanations! 
Think About It!

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