Go For the Magic

by Pat Williams

This review by Edwin M. Willmington

Pat Williams is an interesting person. I read another of his books as he described the process he and his wife went through in deciding to adopt 12 children from different cultures — mixing them in with their own biological children! Whew! It is quite a story. So, one day at one of those outlet malls, I wandered into a bookstore and found Go For the Magic. I like sports related books, which is what attracted me to Pat's other writing. This was no exception. Pat has had a career in sports administration after trying his hand at the player side. As a result, he uses sports stories to make his points about life that he wants to convey. I like that! The other thing about Pat is that he seems to have this "can do" attitude about life. (You would have to in order to have 18 kids in your house!). This book contains both of those elements — sports and "can do." I like the sports and need the "can do."

Go For the Magic has a very unique tactic. Pat takes 5 principles that have made the Disney empire work and applies them to Christian living — along with, of course, the sports stories. As you may or may not know, Pat has been general manager for the Orlando Magic NBA basketball team, which at the time of the writing had Shaquille O'Neal as its very hot property. They were an example of "can do." Shaquille helped that, of course! The 5 principles certainly sound "Disney" to me, and they really give you a source of hope on the positive thinking side of things. I don't know about you, but I've always been a little put off by the positive thinker mentality. However, this book didn't turn me away. Could it be the sports stories? Hmmm…

Principle #1 – Think “Tomorrow”

Yesterday is past, so don't live there. Know how to live today on your way to tomorrow. Then, know how to build the rest of your life.

Principle #2 – Free the Imagination (Doesn’t that sound “Disney?”)

Pat gives a few lessons in "blue sky" thinking. You can do anything!

Principle #3 – Strive for the Lasting Quality

I liked this, because I like doing things well. Our world is caught up in the consumer mentality — that everything is disposable. Pat encourages us to do things that will last.

Principle #4 – Have “Stick-to-it-ivity” (also sounds “Disney”)

This is basically stubbornness with a purpose.

Principle #5 – Have fun!

Ministry can be really trying from time to time, but there are lights along the way. This principle reminds us to have fun when we can.

So, if you need some "can do" in your life, like some sports stories, or like a few hilarious cases about living in a house with 18 kids, this book will give you the kick you need to keep going.

EMW

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