There are very few movies that I will watch more than once, but Seabiscuit is one of them. I may be drawn to it for several reasons. Perhaps it is because I love horses and have owned many, both bought and rescued. Or maybe because I love the moral of the story, which is that everyone and everything deserves a second chance. But mostly because it inspires those who watch it to never give up on anything or anyone, persistence will persevere.
Seabiscuit was a champion thoroughbred racehorse in the United States. He became the top money-winning racehorse up to the 1940s. He beat the 1937 Triple-Crown winner, War Admiral, by 4 lengths in a two-horse special and was voted American Horse of the Year for 1938.
But the facts surrounding his rise to glory and fame are not typical. He broke all the rules. He had lousy conformation, was small in stature, and did not train well. Yet, he blossomed and captured the hearts of many. At the start of his career, he had raced 35 times when just 2 years old, producing five wins and seven-second place finishes.
The streak of success did not last long. Although Seabiscuit was trained by one of the best, he fell short on his performances and was banished from the racing community. Then one day, he was bought by a caring man who gathered together a team of handlers, trainers, and riders searching for a new outlook in life, a new chapter, and a second chance. This man saw the potential in all of them before they did. This was what was the most inspiring part of this true story.
From that day on, Seabiscuit went on to win many races. As a result of his soaring popularity and winning streak, he was selected for the ultimate race with War Admiral. The race was called the "Match of the Century," and he delivered an unforgettable show dominating the race by four lengths. In 1938, he acquired the "Horse of the Year" title. At the end of his career in 1940, he retired as winning more money than any racehorse.
This is indeed a true story about second chances. From the horse to the owner, to the trainer, to the rider, all involved were at the end of their rope, needing someone who believed in them enough to give them a second chance. And because of this, everyone involved thrived and ultimately succeeded.
I believe that we all deserve a second chance; some of you have already had yours and appreciate this very same message and story. Many of us would not be where we are today if not for second chances. Whether yours is to love again, work again, play again, or win again, you deserve it. If you surround yourself with people who believe in you and support you, I am confident you will always go on to succeed.
My affirmation you this week is:
"I am embracing my second chances in life and will continue to thrive in all that I have worked for, dreamed of, and desired."
Leave a comment