Happiest Hockey Players On Earth

{For every long mile of the 1447.9, let there be two minutes of uncontrollable laughter}

{for every "hurry up", let there be one "take your time"}

{for every grudge you've been holding, let there be one act of forgiveness}

{for every worry about the condition of your clothes, let there be a friend who reminds you that your style is not why you are loved}

{for every long line, let there be gratitude for two short ones}

{for every minute spent holding a phone, let there be ten minutes of holding a stick, playing vs. Orange County W 7-2}

{for every game won (vs. Vacaville Jets 2-0) let there be a spontaneous dance party in the locker room}

{for every game won of hockey (vs. The Rinks 4-2) let there be one offering of service ringing the bells for the Salvation Army}

{for every irritated thought towards a rude player (The Rinks (again) W 6-1) let there be one handshake offered a stranger}

{for every squabble, let there be a group hug - with 55 people total!}

{for every rainy day, let there be an extra one of sun}

{for every moment spent analyzing your game, let there be one praise for legs that can skate, no matter how fast}

{for every moment you give the gift of yourself to the ones you love, let there be a memory that lasts beyond the tournament}

{with open hands, open eyes, and an open heart, this second place trophy can be different than in the past}

{for the first time in a long time, today I tasted the sweetest part of life}

{Because now I know this day doesn't have to be perfect like the Bruins hockey players Max was so excited to watch practice after Markus' game, not even close.}

This day was not about winning the championship...or getting the most points...or polishing those blades until they shine. This day was about gathering together with our messy, flawed human hearts in an effort to make happy memories that will outlive me, Markus and Max. 

And that messy, flawed heart beating inside me felt peacefully and imperfectly full.