Let's talk about the power of play and how it can bring a much-needed sense of joy and freedom to our lives. In my journey as a working mother, I had forgotten the simple pleasure of having fun. That is, until I stepped onto the floorball court and rediscovered the joy of being fully present and immersed in the moment.
The Sidelines to the Center Stage
I witnessed my daughter's floorball matches, where young girls showcased their skills and, most importantly, their enjoyment of the game. It was a stark reminder of how I had lost touch with that feeling of fun. As a busy working mom, my days were a blur of responsibilities and endless tasks. From early mornings with Vegemite-stained trousers to work deadlines and sick kids, life had become a never-ending to-do list.
Assembling a Team, Finding a Tribe
Determined to change this, I set out to form a women's floorball team. It wasn't easy, but with some persistence and a bit of luck, I gathered a group of like-minded individuals. Our debut match was a memorable one, not just for the score but for the experience itself. We showed up, a motley crew of moms, in the lowest division, with more enthusiasm than skill. But that's the beauty of it; we were there to play, to have fun, and to remind ourselves that we have bodies capable of so much more than we often give them credit for.
The Game: A Lesson in Letting Go
The game itself was a chaotic affair. We were like a pack of energetic dogs, running around, sometimes in the wrong direction, and often getting in each other's way. But amidst the chaos, I felt alive. The physical exertion cleared my mind of the constant mental chatter. For those moments, I was free from the worries of the world. I felt my body move, my heart pump, and my lungs expand. It was a reminder that life is not just about productivity and efficiency; it's about experiencing the joy of being alive.
Finding Joy in the Pointless
One thing that struck me about floorball is its inherent pointlessness. There are no grand prizes or life-changing contracts at stake. It's just a game, a fun activity. And that's precisely why it brings me joy. After years of meticulously planning and accounting for every minute, I've realized that sometimes, the best moments in life are the ones that don't serve a higher purpose. They are simply there to be enjoyed, to bring a smile to your face, and a sense of childlike wonder back into your life.
A New Perspective
Looking back at that first game, I see a group of women who had temporarily escaped the drudgery of daily life. We were radiant, not because we won or scored goals, but because we allowed ourselves to be fully present and immersed in the experience. It's a reminder that sometimes, we need to step away from our busy lives and simply play. It's in those moments that we truly live.
