You see, life is a horse race—a long race for some, a shorter race for others! Some horses are groomed for winning, receiving the proper nurturing to succeed. I was not. My training from the beginning was to fail; however, this is where the heart takes over. For those that possess this intangible, yet invaluable, attribute, amazing wins against all the odds can, and will, happen.

Don’t be fooled by mystical thinking, it is not the hand of God that reaches down to help you succeed above others. No, it’s your own heart that propels you towards your destination. Be smart, take the credit. Pat yourself on the back at every opportunity. It’s healthy, and it’s a great form of positive reinforcement. At the same time, be constructive and demand a better performance when you haven’t given all.

Remember, the race I speak of is usually a long race, so many defeats will happen before you hit your stride. And many times this race will take place on a muddy track, or with an injury. In some cases, it takes years of losing to gain the knowledge you need to win. Only through losing do we learn how to win.

Nothing is more exciting to see than Cinderella come from behind to reach the finish line ahead of the pack. It’s why we have words like, dramatic, fantastic, sensational. I’m in my own private race. I’m the horse with astronomical odds against him. I’m running hard, my heart beating out of my chest, legs weary, age catching up, but the race isn’t over. If I lose today, I will win tomorrow!

I want someone with me to be part of my victory. But if that never happens, then I will celebrate alone.

Either way, if I have heart, Cinderella Wins!