The Incredible Man in the Arena

LeBron James   (Photo by Erik Drost)

Those who were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the words on LeBron James’ sneakers as he raced around the court last night would have seen this phrase:  The Man in the Arena.

This hearkens back to a famous speech by Theodore Roosevelt, actually titled “Citizenship in a Republic.”  In it,

Roosevelt recalls the rise of America, and explains the role that citizens must play within a democratic republic.

Roosevelt reminds those with wealth and education that much is expected.  It is not proper to sit on the sidelines and sneer; they must instead share in the “rough work of a workaday world.”

TR points out that “there is no effort without error and shortcoming,” and that a noble quest is well worth the blood, sweat and tears.   Above all else “stands character,” which includes diligence, “self-restraint, self-mastery, common sense… individual responsibility,” teamwork, “courage and resolution.”

Sounds like someone whose very name has come to mean excellence.  Someone who comes back stronger time after time.  Basketball is the medium, and James is the master. 

Resources

http://www.theodorerooseveltcenter.org/Learn-About-TR/TR-Encyclopedia/Culture-and-Society/Man-in-the-Arena.aspx 

Copyright May 26, 2018 by Linda Van Slyke   All Rights Reserved