If you don't do what's best for your body, you're the one who comes up on the short end.
Julius ErvingRead
When I get a chance to power jump off both legs, I can lean, twist, change directions and decide whether to dunk the ball or pass it to an open man. In other words, I may be committed to the air, but I still have some control over it.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the ability to adapt and make decisions even when faced with opportunities.
Julius Erving's quote reflects the dynamic nature of taking risks and making choices. It illustrates how one can embrace challenges, like jumping high in basketball, while still retaining the power to control the outcome, whether it's a bold move or a strategic pass. This serves as a metaphor for life, where taking leaps of faith can lead to various possibilities, but with the wisdom to choose how to proceed.
In practice
During a motivational speech at a sports camp.
If you don't do what's best for your body, you're the one who comes up on the short end.
One of the most predictable things in life is there will be change. You are better off if you can have a say in the change. But you are ignorant or naive if you don't think there will be change, whether you want it to or not.
I demand more of myself than anyone else could ever expect.
When I played, the owners had the power. The prisoners are running the prison now, not the warden. The warden is strong and he has say so but, the balance of power is definitely with the players.
Right up until the time I retired at age 37, I felt like there were still things that I could do better.
I keep both eyes on my man. The basket hasn't moved on me yet.
Live this day as if it will be your last. Remember that you will only find "tomorrow" on the calendars of fools.
Work joyfully and peacefully, knowing that right thoughts and right efforts inevitably bring about right results.
You need three things to win: discipline, hard work and, before everything maybe, commitment. No one will make it without those three. Sport teaches you that.
If you never budge, don't expect a push.
I just try to win the match by fighting for every point, and running down every ball.
Of course motivation is not permanent. But then, neither is bathing; but it is something you should do on a regular basis.
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