test

I once read that Walt Bellamy would play poorly against lesser opponents and rise to the occasion when he played against Wilt Chamberlin or Bill Russell. Perhaps when he played against the stars he knew it was a test and he met the challenge.

We do not know what we can be if we don't test ourselves.

Ultimate Fighter 2 started last week on the cable network Spike TV. In every episode you see the participants testing themselves, first in their workouts and competitions and then against each other. In this weeks episode Melvin Guillard, with 36 wins in mixed martial arts fighting, loses his match. After the fight Melvin says he froze a little when entering the ring.

The young man put in a great effort and with all those wins you would have thought he was ready. He says he froze and I believe him. The fighting experience is one thing but none of those bouts ever held the opportunity that this one did.

You have to test yourself if you want to rise to the occasion. Every workout is a test, it isn't just practice or something that makes you stronger. Reading a book is a test, I know lots of people who can't do that. Applying for a job is a test, eating right is a test, the car breaking down is a test.

You have to choose to test yourself, if you let fate decide when to test you, you may not like the results.

Note: Melvin Guillard is from the New Orleans area, he is no doubt being tested again. I donated to the Red Cross Hurricane 2005 Relief, so can you. Go here.