“Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”
– Proverbs 11:2

I’ve learned countless life lessons sitting in a coaches office. One of those took place over forty years ago, but it’s just as vivid now as the day it happened. After four years of coaching, I found myself in the office of the Head Coach trying to find the right words to tell him I was leaving. Fresh out of college, he had given me my first opportunity to coach and I was grateful. My wife had just graduated from the local college and we agreed that her job opportunities would be better if we moved to a larger city. The conversation was short and to the point. I don’t remember him thanking me or wishing me well, but there were no ill feelings on his part. As I got up and prepared to leave the room, he said in a clear voice, “Just empty your locker and bring your gear back to my office.” My gear consisted of two very worn t-shirts, a pair of coaching shorts, a sweatshirt and hat with the school logo on them, and a three-year old pair of black coaching shoes. I was miffed at first, but quickly realized that he had issued the clothing to me, so he had every right to take it back. Much later, I saw even more wisdom from his actions. If I was no longer serving on his staff, I certainly didn’t need to be wearing the colors and the school name.

Truthfully, I had walked into that coaches office expecting a little more. I had worked hard and put in long hours during my stay. I was a team player and was always willing to do a little extra if needed. As I visualized  how the conversation would unfold, I thought he would be more appreciative and maybe even try to talk me into staying. Cleaning out my locker and throwing my gear into a dark corner of the office was not something I had imagined. Proverbs 11:2 clearly explains the dangers of pride. Thinking too highly of yourself and your efforts is always dangerous. Anytime pride gets comfortable hanging out with you, watch out! There is a “fall” coming.

Heavenly Father, keep my pride at a safe distance from me today. Keep me humble and focused on You. Amen.