For this of you that remember, there used to be a TV commercial for Life cereal. If you’ve never seen it, you can see it here. Mikey Likes It. I’m sharing this because I want to tell you about the Mikey I know.
For those that know me, you know I like racing and I’m competitive. In early December I’m at a show / swap meet for race cars and parts. While I’m browsing at a table filled with specialty tools, parts and more, amongst thousands of others, Mikey approaches me and says hello. Mikey tells me he’s seen my website and blogs and he finds them inspiring and looks forward to more. I’m honored and humbled that this young man who I’ve known for the majority of his life has found inspiration and wisdom in my words.
I first met Mikey when he was a young boy and his mom and dad brought him to a local kart track to race. It appeared as though his mom and dad gave him every opportunity they could and it was evident how much they loved their little boy. They all tried so hard, stuck with it and continually got better. Racing isn’t easy and it’s very competitive, at any age.
Fast forward to the summer of 2019. Mikey has grown up into a respectable young man, and you can still find him and his mom and dad at the race track every Friday night. They’re not racing karts anymore as they have moved to big race cars. It’s much more expensive, the competition is incredible and the highs and lows are amazing. Mikey usually runs well, but being the first to cross the finish line and get the checkered flags has eluded him, that is until one Friday night this past summer. I, along with so many others, possibly every competitor from every class and every spectator were thrilled for Mikey and his parents. It not because he won, it’s not because he’s a nice kid, it’s not because we’re all nice people, it’s not because his parents are so supportive. Yes, those all played into why we were thrilled for him, but at the end of the day it’s because he was and is relentless. He never quit, he just kept trying, working and getting better. He did and does what we should all do every day. It takes focus, it takes discipline and it’s not easy.
Mikey, you said you liked my stories and found them inspirational. I like how you’re living and the dedication you have. I find that inspirational. Keep working, keep winning and here’s to a great 2020!