Day Three: She's a Soccer Player Again Because Age is Just a Number

As I lace up my cleats this morning, the sun rising over the field feels different today. It’s not just about muscle memory or the mental clarity that’s beginning to form, it’s about something deeper—something that has been dormant for 10 long years: my spirit to play the game.

On Day 1, we talked about how my body had to relearn its movements, stretching muscles that had long forgotten the rhythm of a soccer field.

Day 2 was all about mental recovery—rethinking the game, regaining focus, and shifting my mindset back into "player mode." And rediscovering the power of belief. Mindset carries so much of the physical movement of the game, but what really dictates the mind...Dr. David Hawkins in his series would say it is consciousness driven by awareness (the Spirit).

But today, on Day 3, I feel something else emerging. It’s the soul of the game. The passion, the fire, the reason why I loved playing in the first place. It’s not just about physical or mental strength—it's the spirit that fuels it all.

I am a Christian, so I may have a different spiritual perspective than you. I do believe we can learn from each other in what we value. What I do know is everything I am given, my strength and patience, obstacles too, all my gifts and determination come from God. I gain my courage and then my confidence to sustain me from God. Daily, I think about how God is my guide, Jesus is my teacher, and the Holy Spirit is my sustainer. This is what goes through my mind when I am training for anything, even the smallest things in life like brushing my teeth. When my focus is on Him, I am being transformed.

Jesus reminds us that we are unconditionally loved by Him.

One of my favorite quotes impacting how I transform my mind guided by the Spirit is on my darkest days, when I feel inadequate, unloved, and unworthy, I remember whose daughter I am and I straighten my crown. This quote reminds me of the power God has given us through and by Him. He makes us worthy when we give it all to Him, He heals our Spirit and gives us exactly what we need.

On my darkest days, when I feel inadequate, unloved, and unworthy, I remember whose daughter I am and I straighten my crown.

Though not a verse from the Bible, there are numerous verses that make this same point: Micah 7:8, John 1:5, 2 Cor 12:10.

The Spirit Has No Age, Just Growth, So Age Really Is Just a Number

Training is more than just a workout for the body and the mind. It’s a practice for the spirit. There’s a rhythm in the game that makes me feel alive, pushing me to become better, not just for the team, but for myself. And it’s this internal drive that turns the practice into something more than just repetition. It’s something that connects me to a bigger purpose. It’s no longer just about skill or fitness; it’s about rekindling that fire within me.

And that’s what I’ve realized today—soccer isn’t just a game. It’s a path to reconnect with my essence, with my true self. There’s a sense of belonging on the field, a feeling that I am part of something bigger than just me. And with every drop of sweat, every sprint, every challenge, I’m feeding that spirit—nourishing the fire that makes me want to be better.

His light will win us the game.

The Journey Continues...

This journey, though challenging, is beginning to feel like a sacred ritual—a practice of not just body and mind, but of spirit.

As I head into week two, I’ll keep this spirit alive. Every moment on the field is a reminder of why I’m doing this. The body is stronger, the mind is sharper, but it’s the spirit that will carry me forward.

Here’s to the fire that keeps burning, even after all these years.

Paige Bueckers of UCONN's women's basketball team talks about the power of God in her confidence for the game. Another athlete who lets her surrender be for His glory. I'd say it is working out for her pretty well at this point.

Since I got that brilliant visual across in three days: body, mind, spirit, I'll be checking in weekly with updates, and I’m looking forward to seeing how this journey evolves. It’s more than just playing again—it’s about becoming whole again.

Let's win,

xx Nani