Do Not Hold Back.

I have spent many years playing a sport called Hockey. You get to run around a field with a big wooden stick hitting a ball and trying to score goals. Some say it is violent but it is great exercise and a lot of fun.

Being a defender my main role was to tackle any opposition forwards so they could not take the ball into our defense. So with forwards being tackled and defenders tackling, all players were involved in tackles, whether they liked it or not. Everyone tackles in different ways... some like it and get stuck into it, others are scared and back off completely giving the ball up, some know they have to tackle so do a bit but it isn't strong nor very effective giving a half effort.

The thought of fear is a real one, and I have worn many hockey sticks + balls in the face - bruises and split lips are not fun. Most players are afraid of being hurt and rightly so, but there are things we can do that reduce the risks of serious damage. Three methods come to mind: 1. flee, or 2. give a half-heart attempt, or 3. get in very close: don't stand at arms length, get in so close that no stick can get you at full swing.

Whether you are tackling or things are tackling you... tackles are there... what is your stance?.... do you stand back or do you get fully involved, get into a strong position and fight like you want to win. We can get fooled into thinking that getting too close is dangerous, but holding back or not pressing-in is the dangerous spot... not knowing... not fully committed.

How you hold and position yourself when in a tackle could mean the difference between success or great pain. Don't hold back.

Blessings,

Akita.
29-8-07

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Revelation 3 v 15+16

"I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot.
I wish you were either one or the other!
So, because you are luke warm - neither hot nor cold -
I am about to spit you out of my mouth."

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Akita Olsen
Email: olsens@westnet.com.au

Bunbury Vineyard Church.
PO Box 1475, Bunbury,
WA 6231, Australia.
www.bunburyvineyard.org.au

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