The Spirit of a Man
Some people are happy when they win. Some are happy period!
I watched Tommy Wilson pull Jean Gellings' hat off and comically stretch it out for her so it would fit her head better after her big win at Soldier Hollow. He made us laugh until we cried, skipping with Jean down the path from the trial field singing "We are the Champions," rolled up posters waving overhead. Tommy was in the double lift at Soldier Hollow, and had a very good chance to win. Why wasn't he back at his trailer feeling a bit blue, instead of readily assisting Jean have the time of her life after her big win?
At Meeker, Tommy had a great run going, another very possible win, if not for one stubborn ewe in the shed. When time ran out, along with his chance to win, he entertained the crowd by hooking the ewe with his crook and dragging her out of the group. He had to be disappointed, didn't he? But once again, he put us all first, giving us all another great laugh.
That brings us to the finals. He was leading the entire way, only to be bumped to second place toward the very end. I was so disappointed for him I could have cried, but there he was on the webcam once again with a wonderful spirit, putting himself out to make us all laugh, happy as can be. Did he not get the memo??? He did not win the trial, yet there he was, filled with joy, not wasting a minute of this precious life.
Can you learn this stuff? Is there a Tommy Willson attitude clinic coming soon? Sign me up! Maybe a "How To Be A Real Winner" tape, by Tommy Wilson. I will buy one. Heck, I will buy two! What a great dog handler, and an amazing man....
Attitude and sportsmanship are so important in any competition. We should all remember to be good sports and do our best.
ReplyDeleteLife is finite and precious be joyful for all you have and don't waste time worrying about what you don't.
What a lesson. Hope I can learn it. Thanks for this.
ReplyDeleteI have seen Tommy Wilson off and on for 20 years. I have never seen that man without a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye. He is gracious whether he wins or loses. I have learned that we are lucky to be able to do what we love and every day we are winners if we realize that!
ReplyDeleteAfter the Finals on Sunday, when most everyone had left, I saw Tommy Wilson folding chairs in the spectator tent with one other person. I went in and helped him and then others joined in. He didn't have to help tear down - but he's just that kind of person.
ReplyDeleteThanks for reminding me of the attitude that I struggle with. Tommy AND YOU TOO, are good examples of how to live each day with joy.
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