If you're even remotely familiar with the world of NFL football, the title "Halftime Score 33-0: Halfway to Heartbreak" likely triggers memories of an unforgettable game.  If you, like me, don’t even know what a ‘pick 6’ is, the title refers to the 2022 Vikings vs Colts matchup that ended in the largest comeback in NFL history with a final score of Vikings 39, Colts 36. And even though I can only name a handful of NFL teams, I love a good comeback story and the lessons learned. 

Let's rewind to that critical midpoint.  With a halftime score of 33-0, clearly the game had not gone as planned.  Hours of preparation, forethought, hard work, training, and effort had gone into the game plan – but it just wasn’t panning out.  With frustration and disappointment hanging heavy in the air, the players  made their way off the field to the locker room.  Yet, in this locker room filled with frustration and doubt, there was at least one player, Patrick Peterson, who refused to be swayed by the score or the dire circumstances. No, he rallied his team, driving home the message: "We only need 5 touchdowns."

It is hard for me to comprehend such boldness. But what would happen if we took this boldness off the turf and into our own lives? We've all faced those moments – the unlucky twists, the missed chances, the decisions that could have been wiser, and yes, even those metaphorical bad calls. The beauty (or perhaps, relief) is that most of our setbacks aren't broadcasted on a national stage. But there's something profound in that privacy. It's a reminder that our choices matter, that our response to defeat matters, even if only a few sets of eyes witness it.

As I enter my personal 3^rd quarter of life I'm confronted with a choice – a crossroads - do I continue on the path of mediocrity or take a look at the landscape of what remains and charge back on the field with the mentality that I only need 5 touchdowns.  At this point in my life, the scoreboard may show I am trailing, but life is a series of challenges and triumphs that we can choose to run from or to confront head-on.  I, for one, I choose more.