When I was a kid

When I was a kid,

Collecting sports cards was a passion.

Every dollar I saved went to adding to my collection.

I remember the rush…

Opening a new pack,

Trading with friends,

Finding that special player.

But then, high school happened.

Things changed.

Sports cards didn’t seem as cool.

It wasn’t just for me but for a lot of people.

Sports cards fell out of favor.

But a few years ago, the industry rebounded.

Sports cards made a comeback, a big one.

Recently on a whim, I went to the National Sports Collectors Convention.

It was massive.

People were everywhere, all buzzing with excitement.

Fathers and sons.

Guys my age.

Professional collectors.

There was an energy in the convention center.

Seeing everyone’s joy in pursuing their passion was infectious.

Some were there for nostalgia, others for the love of a sport, and others hunting for investments.

It reminded me of my childhood, of simpler times.

When I got home, I dug out my old collection.

There were cards of my childhood idol, Michael Jordan.

Ticket stubs to Chicago Cubs games.

Even unopened Wheaties boxes from the Bulls championship run.

The memories flooded back.

Today, my passions have shifted.

Now, it’s about my daughter, growing my business, and playing pickleball.

These pursuits drive me and give me purpose.

They make me eager for each day, like collecting sports cards once did, and still do, for others.

Sports cards may not be your thing, either.

But have a thing.

Keep your passion alive.

Find what brings you joy and chase after it.

Passion is energy.

Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.