The Secret to Maintaining Joy and Energy

June 13, 2023

The Oklahoma Sooners women’s softball team represents the University of Oklahoma NCAA Division I college softball. The team competes in the Big 12 Conference and plays its home games at OU Softball Complex in Norman, Oklahoma. The Sooners are currently led by Head Coach Patty Gasso, an experienced coach with 29 years behind her.

The softball team is the recent winner of the Women’s College World Series (WCWS) championship. On Tuesday, members of the team were asked about their play style and strategy, just days before the team won its third consecutive national victory. This is an impressive achievement for any team for one season. But three in a row? They went undefeated, and they did it with style and grace.

But in an interview with an ESPN reporter, some players spoke about their secret to maintaining joy and energy after a long season, all agreeing on one principle: faith. The video went viral in our world that is searching for reality and hope.

"The only way that you can have joy that doesn’t fade away is from the Lord. And any other type of joy is actually happiness that comes from circumstances and outcomes," Oklahoma player Grace Lyons said in response to a question. Explaining how they are able to handle the stress and the pressure, they led with the truth of Philippians:

"Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.          Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience                God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."

We all deal with stress and pressure in life. Here are young women who are in the spotlight, the cruel spotlight of the sports world, where you are on top one moment and can easily be old news the next. Critics are everywhere. After the game, everyone knows what you should have done, could have done. The second-guessing and criticism are relentless. Yet they are handling it with grace, gratitude, and humility. Why? They plainly point out all through the interview that it is because of individual deep-faith relationships with Jesus. We would do well to take some cues from them.

It’s also important to note that this stems from their coach and leaders who also have deep and consistent relationships with Jesus. Coach Gasso has modeled, invested, and poured this mindset into them. Parents, we have the same opportunity to do it with our kids. The number- one issue that concerns parents and teachers today is mental health issues with young people. This is how you strategically and straightforwardly deal with it. Invest in your own relationship with Christ, then you have the credibility and wisdom to share it with your kids. It will require your intentionality and consistent investment in your kids. The question is, “Do you believe it is worth the effort? Will you do it?”

Watch the Video. Be inspired. Then step up to the plate. This is your time to win!