You're Not Listening to The Coach

I'm a college athlete, and I think I know everything. The problem is, I can succeeded once, and fail the second time around. Just because you get it right the first time, doesn't mean it's OK to let your guard down. This principle applies to diving, and applies to spiritual nourishment. Constant reminders are necessary for progress. They are also needed for permanent memory.

In diving, the athlete needs to jump the hurdle, or make the board bounce with their step. I mastered this principle earlier in the year, and thought I had created permanent memory. I then found myself ignoring my coach’s constant plea for me to jump the hurdle. I was convinced that my bad dives were because of another mistake. Finally, my coach pointed out that I was not listening. I was very angry at first, but then tried to jump my hurdle like he had asked. What do you know! He was right, and I was too stubborn to listen the first time.

 I related this to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Sometimes we know the answer to a question, but we don't know how to apply it. Mormons are taught that going to church and daily prayer are essential to being close to Christ. If we are not reminded over and over, it is easy to be lead a stray and forget these important principles. My experience was a beautiful reminder that I might know the answers to everything, but I don't remember to apply them. We need to humble ourselves and listen to the critics around us.

I want to be quicker at listening to my diving, and spiritual coaches. Being open to advice does not show weakness, but shows strength to move forward and progress.