Coaches in the early morning, run through lids and cups as fast as dry erase makers when designing the newest game day scheme. We have frequented many a gas station in our careers before hitting the road or early morning meetings. However, my favorite coffee is simply found when I arrive at work. The Bunn Coffee Maker in our office maybe the most beloved piece of machinery in our program. I guess it is the comfort of being in a football environment and the joy of fellowship with our coaches.  Most of us cannot start our day until we have fixed that perfect cup of coffee and some could make this an all day affair. We have all the ingredients available for everyone to stir up and begin their successful daily routine.

However, the one thing we do not provide in the office is a “Lid” to protect that precious morning cup. In theory none of us are going to let it sit long enough to get cold and we cautiously trust each other enough not to spill. Outside the office is the only time a “To Go Lid” is needed for protection. I normally just grab one from the gas station but never pay attention to the writing on top. The other day, while on the road, I just happened to look down and actually read the “Lid”. This particular lid had “Caution Hot” in 3 different languages, a serial number, recyclable sign, and a small drinking hole. The wording that morning struck me in a whole different way than normal. That message is really many of us everyday, we are “On The Go” needing protection, living in caution of being “burned”, feeling like another number, and that we can only pour out in small amounts.  Once we get outside of our comfort zone, we need a lid on us for constant protection that ultimately holds us back from becoming our best.  I want to warn you that this is the farthest from the truth. The world can hold you back from your ultimate potential by fear and making one feel insignificant outside their comfort zone.  Even though we are just talking about a simple morning ritual, this analogy rings so true to many of us each and every day.

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. -Psalm 139: 13-14

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7