Thinking this was not my in my vision..

I’ve always had a vision for my basketball career as I’m sure many players have had. Needless to say being released from a team and not retiring on my own was never in that vision. I’ve seen the research and I know at least 70% of professional athletes are forced into retirement. Still that was not the vision God placed in my heart.
My former mentor  and the first coach to teach me the game, Coach Kay Yow (RIP) told me basketball wasn’t just about me but the people you impact by playing the game. My Dad would always tell me before each game remember someone has never seen you play before so you need to introduce your talent to them tonight in a positive light whether you win or lose.

Since my time away from the league I’ve been so hard on myself questioning did I do enough. Is the positive  legacy that I envisioned for my career in tact. I have been training for a comeback and I have found out quickly that some things are out of my control. I felt that by getting back in the league I could make sure I ended on a more positive note with myself and the fans.

Yesterday the Mystic’s celebrated their 15th season by acknowledging five of the best Mystic players to play the game. My Mom thought it would be a good idea for me to go back to DC for the game. Now you know I love this game but at the same time it just wasn’t a very positive situation when I left in 2011. All those enduring questions came back. I was enjoying my summer I didn’t want to revisit the past especially if I wasn’t playing.

Then I was reading my twitter timeline and read a tweet from Bishop Bronner “A journey back can often lead you forward. Take time to reflect!  I called my mom that morning and decided to go.  My journey back turned out to be just what I needed and as always God’s timing was perfect.  I was able to engage with the fans and  I was truly humbled by what some of the fans said to me about how I impacted their lives.

I heart this guy so glad to reconnect.

At the fan event after the game I was a taken back when one of my biggest smallest fans came up to me and gave me a huge hug. This is a true story when I say this kid has been on my mind since I left DC. Every player relates to one or more fans and this kid and I had a bond. We hugged before and after every game and I would always give him my bracelet or shoe or towel or something.  So it was so nice to reconnect with him and I’m truly humbled  by the encounter.

My dad always says Chasity don’t get caught up in the wins and losses but if your talent allows you to reach just one, you’re doing your job. You’re using your God given ability to impact others.I took a journey back like that tweet said and I already feel like it’s leading me forward…

(P.S. Special Thanks to Abi Olajuown for the pep talk..your awesome!)