Detours

I tucked into episode VII of The Last Dance last night, the zeitgeist Netflix hit on the Chicago Bulls road to becoming six-time NBA champions. 

The episode speaks to some uncomfortable truths in the life of Michael Jordan and his relationship with the game in the wake of his father’s murder. James Jordan was more than MJ’s mentor. He was his confidante. His best friend.   

The tragic event would lead to MJ’s abrupt departure from basketball, sending shockwaves through the world, and raising eyebrows in and out of the sporting community.

When Jordan subsequently signed a multi-year deal to play baseball for the Birmingham Barons, a minor-league outfit affiliated with the Chicago White Sox, it left the media searching in vain. 

Jordan attributed this curveball (pun intended) to his late father’s wishes. Yet watching Jordan relish his time on and off the pitch made his decision all the clearer.

In truth, MJ had grown tired of the NBA, had lost sight of his love for the game. Not only did his time with the Barons help to take his mind off his father’s passing but it afforded him the opportunity to realign his priorities.

When we lose sight of our destination, it’s integral to hit the reset button. Taking a detour out from our intended destination not only promises to re-align us with our inner voice but leaves us all the stronger for it.

Xo