Lately I have been thinking about what kind of legacy will I leave my son? Coaching my son in basketball this past season has been a dream. I watch in admiration as he executes the plays as outlined on my coaching clipboard, constantly encourages, and unselfishly looks for the open teammate. But as I watch and scream instruction from the sideline I realize acquiring extraordinary basketball skills is not the greatest legacy my son can receive from me. More importantly, I pray he receives character, work ethic, and discipline- all virtues that will point his young life in the right direction.
One of the most prolific scorers in college basketball history Pistol Pete Maravich wrote this about his dad Press Maravich in his autobiography Heir to a Dream:
“As I look back now, I finally feel as though I understand my inheritance. Dad handed me something beautiful and precious, and I will always be indebted to him. He gave me his life full of instruction and encouragement. He gave me hope in hopeless situations and laughter in the face of grim circumstances. Dad gave me an example of discipline unequaled, dedication unmatched. He gave me the privilege of seeing an unwavering faith when the darkness of life and death surrounded him.
But, more than anything, my father became a symbol of what love and compassion can do in anyone’s life, and I am happy to accept that love as his heir to a dream.”
We went and got haircuts together the other night and as I looked over and watched him looking into the mirror at his refection I was reminded once again how quickly he is growing up and the critical role I assume as dad. Never mind that as my wife said “I am looking more like Matt Hasselback (bald quarterback of the Seahawks) while he is looking like Tom Brady (full head of hair quarterback of the Patriots).” There is another part of the legacy I am preparing for my son. One that takes much longer than a practice or game plan to prepare. I’m talking about the will whether strong or compliant that resides deep within the heart of our sons- his will to choose, his will to decide, his will to sort out and select. I realize I may not always be there for him so this is the will I must prepare before it’s too late.
