1. I do it because I love it -- all three sports.
2. I love the interaction with the kids and other officials.
3. I love it because it is so different than what I do for a living.
4. I like having a hobby that I am good at and can keep being challenged and grow.
5. It has helped me learn that most of the time when people complain about things it really isn't about me, but their situation.
6. I feel so much better physically and emotionally during all three seasons.
7. I look good in stripes and have this thing for polyester!
Sure there are nights I think about hanging up the stripes. I went through a real slump recently and just wasn't having much fun.
See my thread "It finally dawned on me." from a few days ago. Then I have a HS game like the one tonight with the flow and the pace and the loud crowds in the gym and the calls... as long as I still get that rush.... at least sometimes.... I'm going to stick with it. Ride out the lows because they do pass. Enjoy the highs because they feel so good! Try to find the balance.