Inspiring story of day

We have a young gal at our school who is probably not much taller than Natalie and she is a ninth grader(btw Natalie is short for her age and in 4th grade)she is probably around 4 feet tall. Doctors have told her she won't grow anymore, not exactly sure why. Despite her physical size surprisingly she is on the volleyball team. Volleyball is for tall people. I think I looked up the US men's national team last year and no one was shorter than like 6'7" or so. Most of the girls on the team are around 5'5" to 6 feet tall. They tower over her yet she fits right in and was named captain by her peers. A remarkable vote of confidence for her effort and leadership qualities.

Tonight at the first game our team did quite well as they breezed through a game against Fairfield, only to play right after and face Bountiful Jr. They won the first set rather easily, but found themselves down 12-7 in the second set.

On a side note it was really hot, I mean as uncomfortable, sweaty hot as could be in that gym. I really didn't want a third set. We had been there too long, and it was too hot to really enjoy the game. Then it happened.

Down 7-12 it was our serve and here comes our little hero. 11 straight serves later the score was 18-12. Without a doubt she is the smallest player in the league. I am sure other teams get that look of satisfaction like a wolf seeing an easy target when they see her out there. After 11 straight points that look was gone.

You can't measure heart. You can't measure courage and hard work and determination. I sat next to her mom who had told me throughout the night that she was struggling of late with her serve only to see that sense of real pride and admiration as her daughter dominated. It was a proud moment for all. I know that the word pride has negative connotations, but this isn't the boastful, better than you kind. This is the I'm glad I was there, glad I know you kind. I'm a better person for being around you kind.

Here the smallest was dominating in a game of giants. A real life sports David and Goliath. Its nice to see someone go against conventional wisdom and succeed. I know I was inspired. It made me want to be better. One of those epiphany moments we get from time to time. I am glad I witnessed it. And glad that she had the courage to believe in herself when certainly few would. A true life lesson.