Seek No Gratitude or Pity

My dad was  a simple man. I know he did not have a resume or belonged any major civic, political or religious organizations or did things to impress the boss. I do know  that he got on his kness and prayed almost daily. He provided for his family, took pride in his work as a city employee and loved baseball. This July 25th he would've celebrated his 82nd birthday.

As my mother and I prayed over his tombstone this year I could hear him words asking me if I was still playing baseball.He played his last game at age 62 on a Labor Dat against the Tucon Old Timers. They lost that day but dad batted and took the field that day. After the game all the gentlemen and their families celebrated with a dinner and dance.  A month later he passed away after a two year battle with cancer.

Dad gave generously to the neiborhood kids including bikes and toys. He visited his parents and in laws regularly and take them groceries. He taught me and my brothers how to play the game with passion. My mother's sisters were our best fans packing lunches, cheering and chasing foul balls. Later on my baseball family would include my wife and  daughters. They sacrificed much to be with me or support me.  I in turn did not say thank you enough.

Today I too am battling cancer and winning the fight with the Grace of God eventhough other clhallenges still lie ahead. I am not playing ball as much. My baseball family now  encouraging me with prayer. I am in church ministry  with youth and not  giving in to a pity party because of my condition.  I pray to God to release me from the desire to seek gratitude for past acomplishments in sports or to pity myself  for my illness but only to desire to be a mouthpiece  for the Glory of God in all that I do in sport or work.

God placed my earthly father and his loving hand  as a shining example of God's generosity. Other passions like cycling, hiking and rafting  the Lord has granted me that I can learn to be more grateful. May I display the face of Christ in my personal pursuits for better health and relationships.