Question #2

I bought a basketball last week. I drove by the outdoor basketball court near my house almost every day, and one day, I got the urge to buy one. I wasn't entirely sure why.
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When people see my life, I often get two immediate questions: 1) some variant of, "How do you motivate/push yourself to do that things you do?" and 2) "Do you have any hobbies, anything you do simply for fun?"

I know the answer to Question #1 is a routine-centered thing. Working hard at activities I enjoy gives me a push in life to be the best me I can be. The answer to Question #2? I've shoved that one off for years. After all, I enjoy flute playing and I enjoy running...heck, I often even enjoy studying.

Yet, the times when life usually feels most unenjoyable are the times of year most people look forward to - summer break and winter break. These are the times in which obligations and deadlines temporarily stop. For many, this is a welcome release, but for me, this is the danger zone. Why? Because of my lack of response to Question #2!

The last time someone asked me Question #2, I paused to really think about it. I realized that, besides watching random TLC shows on Netflix, I didn't really have ANY activity that I did for fun and purely for FUN! Music has become part of my career pursuit, and running is off and on. Sometimes, it is fun, but often, the inner expectation to be fast or fit or thin makes it feel like a stale obligation.

I've taken my new basketball to the court down the street twice so far. Once, I went with another person and chatted while shooting hoops. Today, I went by myself, turned on my Christian tunes, and cleared my mind. Am I good at shooting a basketball? No! I'd say I miss 85% of the shots I take at this point. But it just for fun, so it doesn't matter! Now I know why I had the urge to buy a basketball. This purchase was part of a response to Question #2.

As I write this, I am sitting in a beautiful park. I only live 1/4 of a mile away from this park and the basketball court across the street, yet I hardly ever come here. Look at these pictures, and you can see how silly it is that I don't come to this beautiful, peaceful place more often!

I hope I have found part of my answer to Question #2. I am looking forward to seeking out other outlets for personal regeneration and growth. I really want to go to the library and check out some quality literature to replace all the empty TV shows I've been watching. Someone once told me that we all have an emotional bank account. When we empty it by working and giving of ourselves, the only way we can keep going is by filling it back up again. I recognize I have sometimes let my well run dry, and am accepting that it is OK to take the time to fill it up. I hope, that by investing in an answer to Question #2, it will help fuel my response to Question #1. Together, the things God has put into my heart will lead to a full, purpose-driven life!