What a disappointment. Losing to the Australians is EINA! And then we go and to it twice – both in rugby and cricket. I was considering switching to become a soccer fan, but then realise that not only can’t they win, they can’t even do basic maths! No wonder we then turn and pack out Ellis Park for a local game. A good game for the Lions – outplaying the Springboks. Mmmmmm….

Made me think of dealing with disappointments. I had some flashbacks in the past few weeks of the Alan Donald one-run gemors way back. I literally couldn’t sleep that night, as if I was the one who missed the run and lost a drawn match. I had to ask the question to myself: How do I deal with disappointments? I mean, you just can’t win them all (it would help, though, to at least win a few, wouldn’t it?). But I wondered how I respond to disappointments such as losing a game, losing an argument, discovering someone was disloyal to me, hearing from the doctor there’s cancer … or whatever other disappointment I have to deal with.

I am trying (not always successfully!) to follow this advice:

• Don’t lose perspective. What difference did this “thing” make? Does losing a quarter-final change my eternal destiny or my relationship with God? There’s more to life than soccer, cricket or some other entertainment.
• Hold on to God. He will never leave us or forsake us – even when it “feels” like He did. Believe in Him; put your trust in Him.
• Check your values and priorities. How important have other things become to me. Am I spending my life and energy on the things in life that really count, such as my relationship with God, time with my family, true joy in life?
• Use the opportunity to grow stronger. Don’t let this thing get you down. Of course you must deal with it and of course you are disappointed. But can I become stronger, more mature and more focused after getting over my emotions?

Will all of this force me into not watching the games? Probably not. Will I be disappointed next time we lose. I guess I will. But maybe I’ve learned to grow in my relationship with God and focus on what really counts in life.

And please Lord, I know it doesn’t make any difference to your marvellous grace and salvation, but let’s just win something for a change!