Book Reflection: Sixty-One

 

My latest read is Sixty-One: Life Lessons from Papa, On and Off the Court by Chris Paul. As a fellow Demon Deacon and native of the Piedmont Triad, I had to grab this one off the shelf. I'm glad I did because this turned out to be one of the most compelling books I have come across in a while. Sixty-One provides insight into the life of Paul and his relationship with his grandfather, Nathaniel "Papa" Jones. Papa, a business owner and pillar of his community, was tragically killed the day after Paul committed to play basketball at Wake Forest. Throughout the book, Paul recounts the formative experiences of time spent with Papa and how the lessons he imparted have influenced his journey. From childhood to his current status as an NBA superstar, Paul connects these valuable experiences to each of his endeavors. Sixty-One also develops with brief chapters that detail the game in which Paul scored 61 points in honor of his grandfather shortly after his passing. From reading, it's clear how Paul's legendary basketball career is a credit to the upbringing and community that raised him. Before he was known around the world as CP3, Paul was a kid in Winston-Salem helping out at his grandfather's service station. It was here that he picked up many of the values and work ethic that allowed him to flourish as an NBA player and philanthropist. Paul also provides glimpses into other impactful relationships in his life, such as his bond with Skip Prosser, who coached Paul at Wake Forest. I appreciated how this book was both reflective and forward-looking, as Paul seeks to pass the lessons he learned to his children and upcoming generations. These lessons include hard-work, compassion, and finding joy in service. Paul illustrates how these lessons can also help us overcome the collective battles we face as a society. Sixty-One is a testament to the fact that we stand on the shoulders of those that came before us. I recommend this book to anyone, even if you don't consider yourself a fan of basketball. Paul's story highlights the importance of role models and mentorship among youth. As someone that grew up in the 336, this book was a powerful read and new introduction to a hometown hero. 

Book Reflection: Shoe Dog

 

My latest read is Shoe Dog by Phil Knight, the creator of Nike. Released in 2016, this memoir chronicles the early days of the global multibillion dollar footwear and apparel brand. Knight takes readers back to 1962, when he was a recent college graduate seeking his purpose in the world. He dreamed of an extraordinary life where he could live out his passion and have a career that didn't feel like work. He embarked on a journey around the world, and began pursuing what he called his "crazy idea". When he returned from that trip, he began distributing shoes that he imported from Japan. He called his company Blue Ribbon, and partnered with his college track coach, Bill Bowerman. More than a business, Knight was looking to develop a lifestyle brand. His company would go on to transform the shoe industry and become a household name. In the book, Knight tells the stories that shaped the brand. Far from a smooth journey, the book is a testament to resilience and risk-taking. A "Shoe Dog" is someone who makes shoes, but finds a deeper meaning in their work. They see themselves as a part of each step a person takes in their shoes on the journey of life. Considering what Nike is today, it's hard to fathom the challenges that the company faced in its infancy. From lawsuits to federal investigations, the company almost didn't live to see its full potential. Even Knight acknowledges the pivotal role that luck played in Nike's success. Shoe Dog was a very uplifting read for me. Few people possess the audacity to chase their wildest dreams. Through Knight's memoir, we see how a shy kid from Oregon went on to develop a multinational corporation. I definitely recommend adding Shoe Dog to your reading list. You will be entertained, informed, and inspired. Feel free to order using the link below. Thanks for reading! 

Reflecting on Jackie Robinson Day

Often times in life, we face moments in which our character is tested. There are times when we must think beyond ourselves and immediate desires, to consider the ripple effect of our actions. It is a rough journey, where obstacles of fear and self-doubt must be overcome. These are the moments that separate the hero from the commoner. Reflecting on examples of these moments is important, as it inspires us to act courageously when our own character is tested. On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson faced such a test when he took the field in his Major League Baseball debut. Coming out of the Brooklyn Dodgers locker room, Robinson was making perhaps the most monumental entrance into a sports contest. This would be the game where he broke the racial barrier that existed in baseball during the time. We can only imagine the type of thoughts that raced through Robinson's mind at this moment. He was facing the expectations to represent his community, to withstand physical and verbal abuse, in addition to the pressure of performing well in his first MLB game. It takes a person of tremendous character to respond to such a task. This day transcends sports, as an honor to all of those who have worked to break barriers. When I think of Jackie Robinson, I am reminded of the composure that it takes to make a difference despite adversity. Had he not maintained composure throughout the many slurs and pitches aimed at his head, he would not only have held himself back, but also the great multitude of black players and people that stood on his shoulders. Each time he made a hit or stole a base, the impact was much greater than a simple boost to his stats. He showed that when provided the opportunity, people can excel in anything, regardless of the labels placed on them by society. Jackie Robinson's legacy stands as a testament to the power of character and how individual actions can affect the circumstances of others. When he took the field in 1947, Jackie Robinson stepped up to the plate and swung to break a glass ceiling for baseball and humanity.