As we celebrate the graduation of the class of 2019, it is natural for the soon to be alums to think about the teachers and role models that have influenced their lives. It is also natural for we attendees to reflect on our own experiences and heroes. I have been blessed with several. Among them was one of my college coaches, Mr. B. Eugene Nicholson. He stressed to us his three prong philosophy of poise, patience, and persistence.
Poise. A coach prepares his team to be successful while meeting adversity. Coach Nicholson demanded that we play with poise. The game would not always go our way. A good opponent may be successful at different parts of the game. In order to be victorious, we must maintain our poise. I ask that you maintain your poise in the game of life. You too may face adversity and have to overcome obstacles in your life. Be graceful under pressure. Be poised.
Patience. It is hard to imagine that a coach would encourage patience. Often coaches encourage urgency. As I matured under Coach Nicholson’s tutillage, I came to understand what he meant by being patient as a competitive athlete. We would have our opportunities to be successful if only we were patient. He expected that we capitalize upon those opportunities, but understand that those opportunities may be few in number and we would have to work. You never know when those opportunities would come. I urge you to be patient. Know that life is a long journey and impatience may lead to frustration and disappointment. Know that life will present you with opportunities. Be patient. Take advantage when those opportunities present themselves.
Persistence. Coach Nicholson would not accept intermittent effort. It was not good enough to try. It was demanded that we sustain our efforts. It must be understood that we might stumble. Be firm. Be obstinate to the idea that you will fail. In your life you will not fail, unless you quit trying to succeed. Be persistent.
These three words (poise, patience, and persistence) were always a package. Never mentioned one without the other. It was understood that each worked with, complimented and enhanced the other two. As you leave here today, embrace the 3 P’s of poise, patience, and persistence. Embrace complimentary talents, attitudes, and strategies. Maintain grace under pressure. Understand that the success may not occur within your allotted time frame. Most importantly, refuse to lose.
Poise. Patience. Persistence.
