Andy loves to play tennis. He's tried to teach me at the tennis courts near our house, but sadly, for as much as I've tried, it's been a lost cause. Even volleying with me is a disaster as I either miss the ball completely, hit it into the net, or hit it over his head. Me playing tennis is just plain sad to watch.
Upon arriving, I surveyed the people who would be my classmates for the next four weeks. All women, all dressed in cute tennis outfits...and all impressive on the court. I had thought this was a class for beginners, but none of them seemed like beginners to me, especially since they all knew how to hold a racquet and I had to receive special instruction. But each lady was friendly, fun and reassuring of my skills.
I was so insecure for the first 30 minutes that I bit my lip and apologized repeatedly, focusing only on the technique of my newly acquired forehand and backhand skills. The instructors, high school/college students, were all kind and patient. They'd laugh and chat, encourage and instruct. Honestly, I think I got worse as the hour wore on. But they all put me so at ease, that I began to feel safe enough to laugh at myself and have fun.
At the end of the hour, I was surprised at how disappointed I was it was over.
As I venture into my own unchartered waters, I'm still learning how to ignore these intimidating feelings of inadequacy. To accept myself as I am, flaws and all, and enjoy the task of opening a new door in the hopes that it will lead me down new path.
Have you opened any new doors recently? How can I encourage your curiosity?
(ps. Also...are you a tennis pro? Any tips for a beginner?)
I'm sure you did just fine for a beginner. You will learn more with practice Sharon. You are in no way inadequate. Keep trying .[ hugs ]
ReplyDeletelove Aunt Gail
I love you, Aunt Gail! Thanks so much for taking the time to read my blog! And thanks for the encouragement. Andy and I tried to go to the courts so that I could show him my new moves, but it was occupied. We'll keep trying. Love and hugs to you!
DeleteSharon you continually put yourself out there. Many people go through life in a narrow, comfortable space. I always admire your effort to expose yourself to new interests. Brave girl !!!
ReplyDeleteGo to somedaily.com and watch dad and kid perform My Roots Go Down. So precious. The look she gives her dad when she's trying to remember the next word, verse, hand sign, I've seen that look and I know you have also. Somedaily.com is great, also on twitter.
I'm trying! Not always successful, but I'm trying!
DeleteOh my goodness, I absolutely adore her! So amazing! Yes, I've seen that look many times, but my favorite part of that whole video is the dad's response when she doesn't know what to do for mountain. He simply asks her "What do you do for mountain?" and then she remembers and the confidence that happens next is unparalleled. Too often, we give people the answer instead of being patient and giving them the opportunity to figure it out or recall it on their own. We rob them of that confidence. Great job, dad!
My Thursday group of 4-yr olds (who are now all 5, except one!) have a performance on the 31st so we've been practicing on the stage. They'll each play a song at the piano, sing a song into the microphone, and then we have several rhythm ensembles that we do together. Yesterday, it took all my strength not to weep with laughter at some of their actions. I love my job...
Are you enjoying your summer? It's almost halfway over. Do you go back to school early to decorate your room/have meetings?
Hope you and your mom have a wonderful weekend!
Thanks for the 1+, Matheo Berna! Not sure you'll ever see this, but I don't know how to thank you on Google +. I really appreciate you taking the time to read the post! Best wishes to you! xoxo
ReplyDeleteStick to table tennis.
ReplyDeleteI'm worse at table tennis...
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