A booming business, a growing family and all of the "unavoidables" (dental appointments, mowing the lawn, oil changes, etc.) -- shouldn't soccer refereeing be put on the shelf?

I've ask myself that question, and asked it again, and again.  One voice in my brain tells me I do not have time for it.  Another voice rationalizes that it is a beneficial aspect of a balanced life.

This past weekend was one of those times when the conflicting arguments were raging in my head.  It was USSF/NISOA Referee Clinic.  Including a grueling physical fitness test my time was committed from Friday afternoon through Sunday.

It is a commitment, but it is also a chance to fly with eagles.  The clinic was some 200 strong -- people who aspire to excellence and who pursue it with passion.  Among the speakers were Kari Seitz and Marlene Duffy; top soccer officials in the world.  Also on the list of instructors were Sandra Serafini (a top research neurological scientist) and Kim Oberle, both former FIFA officials and now referee instructors and mentors.  Another was Todd Abraham, president of NISOA and an executive for one of the world's largest corporations. And last, but not least, Jamie Lucky, NCAA basketball referee, charmed us.

There is sublime energy that charges your heart and mind when you fly with eagles -- ever so briefly, and then they're gone.  But the perspective gained from the heights is unequaled.