Pause on the Pursuit.

 It's not until we stop, pause and glance back that we realise what is going on and just how many footsteps we have left behind us. Not just those of our own, but those of others lost on this adventure with us. Not until we start do we realise that there isn't a destination but a journey to get lost in and enjoy.

We reflect, we think about what has been achieved, wonder at how we have developed into the people we are and never seem to be able to pin point the exact time things started moving so fast. The lollipop moment which changed the way we think, feel and perceive the world. Or in fact, how the journey happens.. it kind of just does. As the quote goes, 'faith is taking a step without seeing the full stair case.' Maybe that's what it is, numerous small seemingly insignificant moments of encouragement, support, courage, opportunity disguised as a challenge which have provided at times stepping stones to leap from to keep moving forwards.. wherever forwards is.

Commonly described as a catalyst, with the right support, Football Futures has and continues to change lives. For different reasons to different people. The speed in which young people develop is mind blowing. Being in the right environment which allows individuals to believe there are possibilities. To be supported by those a few steps ahead. Making the most of opportunities as they are presented.. being present. Enjoying the now.

Enjoying the now.

Over September/ October I was challenged to stop thinking about what is coming next. Think about the journey up until now, where have I come from, and where am I right now. In-between the opportunities as key top line points, are the people who enabled the opportunity to present itself, and the moments within the opportunity. Nobody remembers the whole thing, the whole trip, event etc. But we remember moments.

What was said, what was felt, what we saw.

What we said, what we made others feel, what we made others see.

I think we're modest, never allowing ourselves to believe we are that powerful to inspire and influence others. Not recognising the small things we do and say can be really big things to other people. We're too busy enjoying ourselves and trying to let other people get lost with us through enthusiasm, reflection and the want for others to develop. 

I've been thinking about the people, the lollipop moments of 3-4 years ago, the many I have had this week and how important they all are. Thought about the shift in thinking from what is the next step/ opportunity to, let's see what happens. The 'hell yeahs' as once described to me.

The points at which we work through the challenges and forget to allow ourselves the enjoyment of letting go. Caring less to almost care more. Enjoying the pitfalls, because they are learning points. Realising that by trusting ourselves, and those around us great strides can be made unknowingly.

Maybe it's good we don't know. But maybe we are missing a whole lot by not recognising the smalls moments which are really big moments.

I guess what I'm trying to say, is, it's good every now and then to just stop. Pause on the pursuit of perfection, nobody really knows the way, but we all remember where we started.

It feels good to be lost in the right direction. I feels good to stop and enjoy the view.