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Sunday, June 2, 2024

Lessons from Mr. Mistoffelees


Life dispenses memories when we're open to reception. More analogies include having our ears up or to the ground, antennas, 'on my radar' and having bandwidth. Access is key. 

Learn from literature, art, drama, music, philosophy, science, everywhere. 

Mr. Mistoffelees is a showman. 


What lessons does Mr. Mistoffelees teach us? ChatGPT shares an overview:

Mr. Mistoffelees, a character from T.S. Eliot's "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats" and popularized by Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical "Cats," offers several insights and lessons through his character:

  1. Embrace Your Unique Talents: Mr. Mistoffelees is known as the "original conjuring cat," displaying magical abilities that set him apart from the other cats. His character encourages embracing one's unique talents and qualities. The celebration of his magical feats in the musical highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing individual skills.

  2. The Power of Humility: Despite his remarkable abilities, Mr. Mistoffelees is portrayed with a sense of humility. He doesn't boast about his powers but lets his actions speak for themselves. This teaches the value of humility and letting one's work and talents naturally garner respect and admiration.

  3. The Joy of Mystery and Wonder: His character brings an element of mystery and wonder to the story. Mr. Mistoffelees' magic can be seen as a metaphor for the unexpected and the extraordinary in everyday life. He reminds us to appreciate and marvel at the mysteries around us, finding joy in the magical moments.

  4. Helping Others: In "Cats," Mr. Mistoffelees uses his magical abilities to help his fellow cats, such as when he assists in the return of the kidnapped Old Deuteronomy. This act of kindness underscores the importance of using one's gifts for the benefit of others and contributing positively to the community.

  5. Confidence and Self-Belief: The character of Mr. Mistoffelees shows the importance of self-belief. His confidence in his abilities allows him to perform amazing feats. This teaches that believing in oneself is crucial to unlocking and demonstrating one’s full potential.

Overall, Mr. Mistoffelees embodies the lessons of embracing one's uniqueness, maintaining humility, finding wonder in the world, helping others, and having confidence in one's abilities.


Life imitates art. Find your superpower. Maybe it's physical, intellectual, or emotional. Coaches and teachers work relationships. Most players won't marvel at how we taught the pick-and-roll or drag screens back to midcourt (Obradovic). Our 'representation' to them is how relatable we were, whether we cared, and how we added value. 

Sportsmanship reflects humility, humility in victory and grace in defeat. Acts of kindness and cruelty can stick with us or be pinned on us. 

How we treat others who can do nothing for us matters. The coaching community thrives on generosity, welcoming behavior, and exchange of ideas. 

"You can never be better than your self-confidence." Confidence  balances arrogance and doubt. 

 

Brad Stevens says, "Coaches get more than we give." Agreed. 

Lagniappe. There's always something to work on. 

Lagniappe 2. Separation follows change of direction and change of pace. 

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