The new season of the reality show "The Amazing Race" started tonight and I'm really excited that the show is back on. I wouldn't say that I'm a reality show junkie (although 2 out of 4 of my blogs are about reality shows) but there are a few that I wouldn't touch with a 10 ft. pole, but this is, by far, my very favorite. Yes, there is some greed involved (what reality show doesn't revolve around that?) and some bickering and arguing (mostly within the teams of two) but the Amazing Race, in my opinion, brings something different to the table. This game takes us around the world where we get a glimpse of cultures, traditions, world history, eclectic music, ethnic foods and the power of teamwork, family and perseverance. We watch teams of two overcome fears, stereotypes, family dynamics, frustrations and games of strength, wits and endurance and when a team is eliminated from the race they share their experience of a lifetime, their reactions of how the race has changed their lives and what truly matters in this life. Funny how a reality show that is aired for one hour each week is a conduit to remind people of what is really important. How navigating through other countries, getting out of your comfort zones, teamwork, patience, calm attitudes and the ability to follow the rules can change someone's life. But it does. Sure, they show the frustrations, the arguments, the temper tantrums, the back biting, but the Amazing Race has a good way to not dwell on that as some of the other reality shows might do (because of ratings, etc.).
I always imagine myself on the amazing race. Kind of like a "what if" scenario. It would be so cool to travel to this place or that place, or I might say, there would've been no way I could have accomplished that challenge. But I'm still able to pull some of the valuable lessons from the Amazing Race and use it for my own "Amazing Race" aka: Life. I can still use many of those traits that I see on the show within my daily life; at work, at home, at church. We can make our daily lives "Amazing", so to speak. I know that might sound corny, but it's true. Most of us won't be able to compete on a show like "The Amazing Race", but we can take all of what we see and apply it right now.
At work, you have teamwork and problem solving that can be used. At home, you have those around you who you love and appreciate and should cherish each moment and make memories and you don't have to travel around the world to do it. Stop and take a look around you and wonder in the gifts and and the abundance that you have right now. At church or any other avenue of faith, religion and spirituality, there is the test of comfort zones, from sitting somewhere different, (I know that's a stretch, huh?) to introducing yourself to someone, to singing a new song that you're unfamiliar with, to enjoying the community you currently visit each week. We can recognize the strengths, gifts and talents of each person and appreciate all of that abundance right in front of our noses and use those to bring good to each other.
While it would be wonderful to have that opportunity to race around the world and experience all that is "The Amazing Race", we can experience some of that right now and create a life that can be truly "Amazing". Just stop a moment, take a look around, love those around you, make memories now (don't wait) and know that you are capable of amazing things in your life, right here and right now. I love this quote from Mother Teresa "Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier." If we could concentrate on that concept at home, work, church, community and every where we may go, what an wonderful world this could be (just like the song). That would truly be "Amazing"!! So, go out and live your Amazing Race!
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