In today’s world, athletics are sometimes taken too seriously. Even to the point that a child could be misled into believing their “identity” or worth is based on whether they “win or lose”.

“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, this is the way; walk in it.” Isaiah 30:21

Last weekend, my daughter Megan competed in an AAU Basketball Tournament at Siena College. She loves the game. In fact, our whole family enjoys playing together. As a parent though, we must balance how we measure her success on the court. Points, rebounds, steals or assists might help her team “win”, but how she conducts herself during the game is far more important in the eyes of God. The final game reminded us of this very important lesson.

Megan plays AAU for the JC (Jesus Christ) Ballers. Their motto is God, Family, School, Basketball ….in that order. Her team has 8 girls. This weekend, some of the girls couldn’t make it, so we started the final game with 5 players and ended the half with only 4 due to injury… the other team had 12 players. This set the stage for a lesson on faith, heart and remembering what really matters.

By half time, the girls were exhausted, but to everyone’s surprise, only down 12 points. Sweat, tears and fear threatened their ability to continue, but they weren’t giving up. The coaches told them how proud they were of their effort, character and team work. Then suddenly, a 6th girl showed up! The girls immediately rejoiced. Bursts of laughter, joy and most of all…hope. As a parent, it was inspiring to see these young girls, bravely take the court again…now with fresh determination and continued faith in one another…just how David must have felt when he faced Goliath.

The 2nd half proved to be very physical, testing their will every step of the way. Slowly they chipped away at the lead …and with 3 minutes to play, were only down by 5 points…

This brings me to this month’s review of the movie “Seven Days in Utopia” rated “G” which follows the story of Luke Chisolm, a young golfer trying to turn pro. When his first big opportunity turns out to be a public disaster, Luke escapes the pressures of the game and finds himself stranded in Utopia, Texas, home to former pro golfer and rancher Johnny Crawford (Robert Duvall). Johnny teaches Luke a new way to look at life and golf, forcing Luke to question not only his past choices, but his future direction.

The movie reaches its climax with Luke attempting a 20 foot tournament winning putt.

As Luke strikes the ball and the crowd holds their breath…. the movie ends, leaving the audience wondering whether or not he made the putt…

Did the putt go in?
Did the girls win?

By not disclosing how it ends, the movie as well as Megan’s game, challenges us to ask a better question. Instead of “did he win?” Ask “is winning what really mattered?”

Growing up I always heard “it isn’t whether you win or lose, it’s how you play the game”. As a kid, I used to think that was said to make the losing team feel better but now I see it means “life is about the faith and relationships we build; and the character and integrity we maintain while doing it”. More importantly, that God has a greater purpose for our lives; and that putting a ball in a cup or in a basket isn’t how God defines success or our worth.

The girls left happy that day. Happy with themselves. Happy with each other. Just plain happy… unaware of the life lesson they had just taught those watching.

Did the girls win in the game? Did the putt go in?  Honestly, does it really matter?