Heart of a Champion, “In it to win it”
What makes a Champion?
A heart that’s ‘in it, to win it’ is a common denominator among champions. School Chaplains are champions in their field.
A champion of champions, like the famous race horse, Secretariat; leaves a very special mark on the world that’s never forgotten. This kind of phenomenon goes far beyond a particular championship.
Those kinds of champions encompass an overarching impact that captivates the hearts of people from all walks of life. Producing the one thing that applies to everything cultivates inspiration for whatever dreams people may have. Thereby igniting an awakening and a renewal of hope for the impossible to become possible.
SECRETARIAT (Have you heard of him?)
By this time, perhaps only the very young have never heard of this legendary race horse. Initially underestimated, Secretariat was not expected to endure for long races. Yet, he won the most prestigious 1973 Triple Crown!
More than that, he won the hearts of the people, including the competition! A one of a kind race horse united people from far and wide who came together, as one, to share the joy of something truly spectacular and larger than life!
His impact is worthy of repeating to every generation. Here are a few places to find him: https://www.history.com/articles/secretariat Also, a search on YouTube provides a plethora of Secretariat videos. Perhaps, grab some popcorn and treat yourself to Secretariat, the movie, a beloved and frequently re-watched classic.
Endurance Secretariat, strong and fast, also had an unexpected endurance for the long haul. This is also required of champions like the faculty who come into the school system full of energy, and ready to conquer the world, but later runs out of steam.
This is when a School Chaplain helps the runners stay in the race by supporting them through challenges.
To quote another historical champion of champions, Apostle Paul, said; “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receives the prize? So run, that ye may obtain” (1st Corinthians 9:24, KJV Holy Bible)
Likewise, in his second letter to Timothy, chapter four, verse seven, Paul says; “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
School Chaplains are champions for students and faculty
Chaplains have a heart to serve, encourage and inspire those who are charged with the responsibility of education. Educators are champions for the success of the students.
Likewise, the school chaplain helps the students discover the source of inner strength and endurance in facing their challenges. Race after race, confidence grows, bringing the students across the finish line!
The HEART
Secretariat was fast out of the gate, and his staying power won the race.
What made him different? He was found to have big heart —literally.
In fact, he was born with a heart larger than other horses.
This champion of champions race horse won races! More importantly, he won the hearts of people from all over the world at a time when encouragement, excitement and hope was needed most.
Why does this matter?
When something extraordinary gets engraved in our hearts, it becomes a point of reference that jogs our memories and sustains us in times of need.
Anyone can champion other people in many ways —big or small.
All we need is a heart that’s in it to win it. The ripple effect is immeasurable.
You don’t have to be world-famous to make a world-changing impact.
You can champion the vision:
Consider becoming a Certified School Chaplain.
Raise awareness and request Chaplains for your schools.
Support the mission financially.
See you at the starting gate!
