So, have you been watching Michael Phelps swim? Have you ever seen an athlete that so embraces the term "mastery". When you watch him, it's more like watching a machine than a person. He swims with incredible precision, consistency, and focus. It is absolutely amazing to watch.

But this idea of "mastery," I am convinced, is not limited to athletes. It is something that we can all aspire to in other parts of our lives. It is a focus and a determination on being the best we can be.

Of course, by his own admission, Phelps' entire life is dedicated to swimming. I heard him in an interview talk about his daily regimen of practice and workouts and he also said that he must focus on swimming constantly. That is a something that few of us can do -- take one aspect of our life and focus solely on it.

But, still, as we watch this amazing athlete and amazing person, there are lessons to be learned I think. We see others attempt mastery with hobbies (I am thinking HeyJules and her photosgraphy), their career, their family, their ministry ... and, provided their overall life balance is good ... what could be greater than saying you tackled one thing ... one gift ... one ability ... and sought to master it ... to be the best you can be at it.