Taking chances

When I started playing soccer about nine years ago I was asked to play for a team called the Sabres in a tournament in Las Vegas. I had never heard of the team before and didn't know any of its members. It was a difficult choice deciding whether or not I should go, and my imagination created various scenarios about the trip and what these strangers may think of me. A self induced loner at the time, I stepped outside my comfort zone and went with them. This decision set in place the creation of numerous friendships.

You've got to recognize there is something special about people who could take a shy introvert, that spent the tournament weekend alone at the poolside bar reading Siddhartha, and eventually turn her into a socially crazed party machine. Over the years these women have become great constants in an ever changing world. And although I see them much too infrequently, when our paths do cross it's always with warm smiles and tight hugs.

Tonight we gathered in support of one of these friends whose band was performing. Given my hectic lifestyle recently, a relaxing evening with friends and music was exactly what I needed. How comforting to be asked the standard 'how are you' and it is not just a polite formality. That I can respond with the long boring details of current events and they are heard with genuine interest.

Yes, nine years ago I agonized over a decision. And tonight I was reminded of the wonderful consequences of pushing one's limits and overcoming trepidation.