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"LESSONS FROM LINCOLN"
Coach Wooden studied Abraham Lincoln. Much of Coach Wooden’s behavior as a coach and a person was a result of him applying what he learned. What follows are some famous Lincoln quotes in italics followed by a thought for its application.
"I have always found that mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice."
It is great when we give each other the benefit of the doubt, resolving conflicts with grace, and forgiving misunderstandings. Assume the best intentions in others.
"With malice toward none, with charity for all…
We are all interconnected by our actions. Whether it’s a kind word, a smile or helping a neighbor fix something, small acts of kindness can strengthen relationships.
"You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today."
Lincoln was a person of action who valued participation. Active participation is essential to our success. It is great when we proactively engage in community activities.
"The best way to predict your future is to create it."
We shape our own future. We should not sit back and wait for others to fix things for us in any area of life.
"Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be."
Let us all choose kindness and optimism. It will transform our day—and brighten the day of those with whom we come in contact.
"The better part of one’s life consists of friendships."
There is no greater possession than friendship. Don’t wait for others to become your friends, act, and make them your friend.
Thank you, President Lincoln!
Yours in Coaching,
Craig Impelman
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COACH'S FAVORITE POETRY AND PROSE
On Being Broke
Don't mind being broke at all,
When I can say that what I had
Was spent for toys for kiddies small
And that the spending made 'em glad.
I don't regret the money gone,
If happiness it left behind.
An empty purse I'll look upon
Contented, if its record's kind.
There's no disgrace in being broke,
Unless it's due to flying high;
Though poverty is not a joke,
The only thing that counts is "why?"
The dollars come to me and go;
To-day I've eight or ten to spend;
To-morrow I'll be sailing low,
And have to lean upon a friend.
But if that little bunch of mine
Is richer by some toy or frill,
I'll face the world and never whine
Because I lack a dollar bill.
I'm satisfied, if I can see
One smile that hadn't bloomed before.
The only thing that counts with me
Is what I've spent my money for.
I might regret my sorry plight,
If selfishness brought it about;
If for the fun I had last night,
Some joy they'd have to go without.
But if I've swapped my bit of gold,
For laughter and a happier pack
Of youngsters in my little fold
I'll never wish those dollars back.
If I have traded coin for things
They needed and have left them glad,
Then being broke no sorrow brings—
I've done my best with what I had.
Edgar Albert Guest (1881-1959)
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