Old D.W was correct, of course, and when we choose an avocation such as umpiring, it is no different. We must adjust to the demands of the choice we have made, and whether we do so either "well or ill" will be the measure of our success or failure. Old D.W. also had some sound advice to offer on the subject of ensuring our success.

Half the secret of success is starting well. Starting well in a career implies knowledge of two kinds of knowledge of the make-up of one’s own personality, knowledge of the makeup of occupations.

While your fellow umpires can only guess at the makeup of your personality, we can certainly offer you the knowledge of the makeup of our occupation, umpiring. In fact, that is the charter task and responsibility of all of the staff writers here, and of Officiating.com itself. That is also why we must be so very careful about the advice and suggestions we offer.

Continued...