Perspective

Life doesn’t always go the way you plan. Sometimes, you face obstacles and challenges that can either make you or break you. I have been faced with adversity my whole life and up to this point I’ve chosen to make the best of my situation. These last four years at ORU have been up and down but I’ve done my very best to always remember how blessed I was to be in that situation. As most know, I grew up in a village in Alaska and I’ve worked for everything that I could control with the help of peers, mentors, and coaches. Throughout these four years, I’ve faced many challenges and I’ve pushed by every single one and I’m proud of that. Basketball led me to ORU and I had opportunities to leave to “bigger” schools to play but I remained faithful because the coaches stayed faithful to me and I don’t regret staying, at all. I believe everything happens for a reason and I was placed at ORU to change lives and meet great people. I am in Tulsa finishing up a few classes and my internship so that I can get my degree in Media and Advertising. Now that I’m done playing at ORU, my name will be in books for a very long time and I have so many great memories. I didn’t get to the NCAA tournament but I won and developed relationships with guys that I now call my brothers. I leave Tulsa tomorrow to train in LA and workout for 15-20 NBA teams this weekend. When I talk about perspective, I’m talking about realizing just how blessed I am. I wasn’t expected to make it out of a village in Alaska to playing Division 1 basketball and do well. I wasn’t expected to make it through college but I am about to have my degree. I wasn’t expected to have the impact on many lives that I am having but I am. I am not expected to play in the NBA but I’m going to give everything I have to reach that dream even if I play overseas, I will keep pushing towards that dream. I’m not even supposed to be in this position but God made a way. Life is ALL about perspective and how you look at a situation. You will be pushed down and you will be told no but if you want to reach your dreams, you never quit fighting. I am so blessed for the opportunities coming my way on and off the court. I am in the midst of pursuing a professional career while expecting my 1st son (Isaiah) in July and I couldn’t be happier about where I am today. I still have so many more lives to change and things to accomplish but ALWAYS focus on looking at the best of a situation no matter what. God will reveal your calling to you.