Harlem Globetrotters 58 Years Later!

I had a real blast from the past yesterday when Julie treated me to a surprise late 70^th birthday present to watch the Harlem Globetrotters Basketball team in Nottingham on their world tour.
 
This was a very significant occasion for me because the last time I saw them was 58 years ago, aged 12. That single event changed my entire life and was why I fell in love with basketball.
 
Another significant event before watching the Harlem Globetrotters was meeting my uncle in Poland who played for the Polish Army basketball team, and he introduced me to basketball. This meeting with him had a huge impact on my life.
 
We travelled to Poland to meet my relatives including my uncle who introduced me to basketball and demonstrated shooting the ball as well as dribbling. This lit a fire in my heart, and I was intrigued by this new sport.
 
 
The Globetrotters changed my life
 
The next thing I remember not long after meeting my uncle is watching the Harlem Globetrotters in London on a school trip. I was mesmerised by the skill demonstrated by the players but what impressed me most was their ability to spin the ball on their finger.
 
I couldn’t believe what I was seeing and from that moment on I started practicing. It took me many months and I gave up many times then went back to practicing. Finally, after about 2 years I succeeded and during this time my basketball skills improved dramatically, and this led me to eventually play for England then professionally.
 
Last night brought back many memories and emotions which rekindled my love for the game. I had many great memories playing basketball across the world, meeting amazing people and living the dream.
 
 
A career-changing injury
 
Then a back injury finished my career at the age of 27! Those who understand sports know that the best years for a sports professional are from 27-30 as they have the experience plus the physical ability to perform to their peak. I was devastated by this, and it hit me hard.
 
This was very difficult to take, and this is where many professionals struggle when they finish playing – what do they do next? In my case I was fortunate to become the commercial manager for the Sunderland Basketball Team, this is where I learned how to promote and sell, and this led to a long career in sales and marketing.
 
“It’s not what happens to you which counts, it’s how you respond that makes all the difference.” John Dabrowski
 
 
A Magnificent career change
 
Finally, 10 years ago I moved away from sales and marketing, and I started my speaking and training career, and I am in love with what I do and how many people I impact. I’ve just received the best testimonial I have ever had from David Little the CEO of Lake District Estates, and it brought a tear to my eye. We have been working together for 3 years and I love working with his staff. 
 
I don’t take for granted the privileged position I am in and wake each morning excited by the prospect of how many lives I can improve during the day.
 
 
Word for Today
 
I came across this short piece in Word for Today and it made me think about life and what it’s about.
 
In a survey, people over ninety were asked, ‘If you had your life to live over, what would you do differently?’ Three answers constantly emerged:
 
1) I would spend more time with my family and friends.
2) I would try more things and take more risks.
3) I would give myself to something that would live on after I’m gone.
 
 
Three very important areas
 
I am working hard on all three of these and have been for a long time. We don’t have long on this planet and before we know it, we are gone. So, we need to make the most of each day.
 
Be mindful of the golden moments each day. Be aware of your family and friends and prioritise time with them. Consider doing some new things you haven’t done before while you still can.
 
I had the opportunity to complete a skywalk 700 feet high at the top of a huge skyscraper in Dubai. I could have said no but I said yes. The thrill of completing this scary feat is still with me and will be something I never forget.
 
There is likely to come a time when you can’t physically do things as you get older so make the most of the time when you can.
 
 
Thoughts for the week 

1. Do you have any moments in your life where someone or something had such an impact on you that it changed your life?
2. This week think back on your life and see what people or moments come up and be grateful for them. You may want to send a message of thanks if you can.
3. Are you spending enough time with family and friends? If not, work on improving this in the coming months.  
4. Try something new. 

 
Well, that’s it for this week. Have a wonderful weekend and keep believing.
 

Warm regards

John