I had the opportunity to hear John Wooden talk at a coaching clinic in the early 70's. At that time I coached High School Girls Basketball. Even today, I can quote many of his saying related to basketball regarding teamwork, dedication, and sacrifice. But the the one poem that has tuck with my for over 40 years ago is the one written below that I read in his book, They Call Me Coach.
I CARRY A CROSS IN MY POCKET
A SIMPLE REMINDER TO ME
OF THE FACT THAT I AM A CHRISTIAN
NO MATTER WHERE I MAY BE.
THIS LITTLE CROSS IS NOT MAGIC
NOR IS IT A GOOD LUCK CHARM
IT ISN’T MEANT TO PROTECT ME
FROM EVERY PHYSICAL HARM.
IT’S NOT FOR IDENTIFICATION
FOR ALL THE WORLD TO SEE
IT’S SIMPLY AN UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN MY SAVIOR AND ME.
WHEN I PUT MY HAND IN MY POCKET
TO BRING OUT A COIN OF KEY
THE CROSS IS THERE TO REMIND ME
OF THE PRICE HE PAID FOR ME.
IT REMINDS ME, TOO, TO BE THANKFUL
FOR MY BLESSINGS DAY BY DAY
AND TO STRIVE TO SERVE HIM BETTER
IN ALL THAT I DO AND SAY.
IT’S ALSO A DAILY REMINDER
OF THE PEACE AND COMFORT I SHARE
WITH ALL WHO KNOW MY MASTER
AND TO GIVE THEMSELVES TO HIS CARE.
SO I CARRY A CROSS IN MY POCKET
REMINDING NO ONE BUT ME
THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD OF MY LIFE
IF ONLY I’LL LET HIM BE.
--Author Unknown--
