David Welter's Blog, page 17
April 23, 2020
Reflections from the Home Team - April 23, 2020“So, if yo...
Reflections from the Home Team - April 23, 2020
“So, if you aren’t okay, it’s okay. It’s okay to be scared, frustrated and feel down. You just don’t want to stay there too long and allow these feelings to take you down a spiral staircase of depression and despair. The key is to find the optimism, hope and faith to keep going and create a better future.” Jon Gordon
Greetings from Cedar Falls!
I think we would all agree that the past few weeks have been a unique time for all of us. I know I have received several messages from good friends about how the Covid 19 isolation and social distancing has impacted them and their families in a “not so positive” way. In fact, a couple of them have used the analogy that they are in a “slump” because of it. Ages of those sharing concerns with me range from 6 to 60, so it’s certainly a potential concern for everyone, regardless of age...
For those of you who are not familiar with the term “slump”, here’s a quick refresher… In baseball, a batter can be defined as "slumping" when he has gotten few or no hits over a period, and his batting average during that time is far below that of his expectations. Even the best of hitters frequently experience hitting slumps. (I’ve been there a number of times…)
I recall one spring season in particular where I was rolling along, seeing the ball well and hitting it hard consistently, when all of a sudden, I went 0 for 18 in my next 18 at bats… Am I going too fast for you? OK, let me say it again for you a bit more slowly – that’s 0 for 18! A “zero” and then a “one” with an “eight” next to it. Eighteen at bats, zero hits, OUCH!
So how did I go about fixing or getting out of the slump? I was certainly getting "a lot of advice” from coaches, teammates, fans and friends related to the mechanics of my swing, all well intentioned of course, but not effective. I didn’t need to get out of my hitting mechanics, I needed to get out of my hitting slump! I needed to get into my own head and work on my mindset, going from where I was while in a slump; tense, impatient, anxious and anticipating bad results to a point where I was performing at my best and crushing the ball again.
As I’ve mentioned, every player, sooner or later, will run into a long hitting slump. It happens to youth players as well as Hall of Fame professionals. In fact, we know players can expect to run into multiple slumps throughout their careers — if not a single season! Some of this is due to luck. Much of it comes down to remaining positive and continuing to utilize a good “approach”. But slumps happen due to things both within and outside of a player’s control. Kind of like the Covid 19 pandemic…One thing I’ve learned and taken to heart since cancer is to not worry about things that are not in my control! In baseball, sometimes the opposition makes an amazing defensive play. Sometimes the umpire makes a bad call. Sometimes you’re just hit with a bout of dumb luck. We can’t get down when these things happen. All are outside of our control. Stressing over things that are outside of our control is pointless and will only make things worse.Probably the single biggest reason a player will fall into a prolonged slump is a loss of confidence. A person’s frame of mind will always impact performance and a lack of confidence will almost always lead to poor results. Confidence can change everything! By staying positive and continuing to take a good approach, things will turn around! As a “player” in both baseball and the game of life who has gone through a number of personal “slumps”, I have always tried to provide some additional attention and support to anyone I see “slumping” to help keep them thinking positively. We can all do the same by staying connected with those we love and care about, even if it’s digitally as we follow the guidelines established as we move forward in our current reality.I recently received a note from a good friend who runs a baseball instructional school in Texas. We go back a long way, as he was one of my first High School players at Sioux City Heelan High School where I began my coaching career. Tim and I have stayed in touch over the years as he works with young players of all ages, not only teaching them solid baseball skills, but also sharing his passion and life lessons learned from the game. Tim writes:Hi Coach,
Hope you're doing well during this crazy time. We're doing well down here, just tired of being cooped up. I was wondering if you would do me a favor please? One of the littlest guys I have is having a tough time with all this quarantine stuff. Sam is 6yrs old. Most of the time kids that age should be worried about nothing more than what the snack is after the game. Sam is a true baseball fan. His first lesson he told me how many days it was until spring training started. He eats sleeps and breaths baseball.
Anyway, I'm trying to find something a little different for Sam to boost his spirits a bit. If I send you a video of one of his swings would you mind making a few comments for me? Just the fact that his swing was looked at by a scout for the Braves should keep a smile on his face for a bit.
Thanks,
Tim
As you can see from Tim’s note, he has his priorities in the right place. His concern for young Sam is not just about his hitting mechanics, but rather about how he can lift 6-year-old Sam’s spirits in this time of isolation and quarantine.
I did respond to the video that Tim sent of Sam’s swing, breaking down Sam’s mechanics and added some positive words of encouragement. Sam’s mom sent back a thank you for helping place a smile back on Sam’s face, and I think we may have picked up yet another Braves fan in the process.
Sam, probably like most of us, is going through a wide range of emotions where many of the norms and guidelines we have lived by have changed dramatically. You may have felt denial, anger and sadness over the past month or so leading you into a “mental slump” as well. I want to reassure you that is OK! As always seems to be the case, my favorite author, Jon Gordon has some wisdom to share on this topic in a recent post titled IT’S OK TO NOT BE OKAY.
Jon Writes:
IT’S OKAY TO NOT BE OKAY It’s okay to not be okay.
You never want to ignore or deny how you feel.
Being positive doesn’t mean you suck it up and put a fake smile on your face.
It’s okay to go through a wide range of emotions and feel the stages of grief.
You might have felt denial, anger, sadness, acceptance and meaning over the last 4 to 5 weeks. Actually, you might even feel these stages and emotions in the course of a day.
There’s no rule book on how to feel during the course of a global pandemic where the rules and social norms of our lives have changed.
You were used to seeing your colleagues at the office, hugging your friends, going to church, taking your kids to school, eating at restaurants, going to sporting events, rooting for your favorite pro baseball or basketball team, gathering with friends, petting your neighbors dogs... and now you can’t.
You’re not used to seeing a daily ticker on the television screen counting the deaths of people around the world and in your country and seeing daily images of people in hospitals... and now you are.
So, if you aren’t okay, it’s okay.
It’s okay to be concerned about the loss of life, the condition of our economy and the expansion of authoritarian government policies. Some act like you have to pick one but it’s okay to concerned about all three simultaneously.
It’s okay to be scared, frustrated and feel down.
You just don’t want to stay there too long and allow these feelings to take you down a spiral staircase of depression and despair.
The key is to find the optimism, hope and faith to keep going and create a better future.
This is not about seeing the world through rose colored glasses. This is knowing you have the power to overcome the thorns.
You have the power to shift your perspective and turn your pain into purpose and struggle into strength.
One day I honestly was letting everything get the best of me. I realized my worry, fear, sadness and anger weren’t going to help me be my best or bring out the best in others.
So, I decided I wasn’t going to buy the doom and gloom being sold and told on the news and social media. Instead I was going to invest in faith, love and hope. Everything changed after that.
The biggest compliment I receive is that people will tell me I helped them keep going when they wanted to give up and I hope these words do this for you today.
Winston Churchill said, “If you are going through hell, don’t stop. Keep going!”
In other words, feel your feelings, give yourself permission to not be okay and then empower yourself with the tools you need to keep moving forward so you can be okay.
Keep believing, keep working, keep going!
Jon
As we face the “slumps” that may come our way in this life, let’s invest in each other with faith, hope and love. As 1 Corinthians 13:13 shares; “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”
There's no doubt that each of these virtues — faith, hope, and love — has great value. Faith is what motivates us to move forward even when the odds are against us. Hope keeps us moving forward, it’s what fuels us to face those difficult challenges and love is at the foundation for every good thing in our lives. Without love, nothing else matters.
May we serve each other in this manner in the days and weeks ahead!
Blessings your way!Be safe and be well!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
“So, if you aren’t okay, it’s okay. It’s okay to be scared, frustrated and feel down. You just don’t want to stay there too long and allow these feelings to take you down a spiral staircase of depression and despair. The key is to find the optimism, hope and faith to keep going and create a better future.” Jon Gordon
Greetings from Cedar Falls!
I think we would all agree that the past few weeks have been a unique time for all of us. I know I have received several messages from good friends about how the Covid 19 isolation and social distancing has impacted them and their families in a “not so positive” way. In fact, a couple of them have used the analogy that they are in a “slump” because of it. Ages of those sharing concerns with me range from 6 to 60, so it’s certainly a potential concern for everyone, regardless of age...
For those of you who are not familiar with the term “slump”, here’s a quick refresher… In baseball, a batter can be defined as "slumping" when he has gotten few or no hits over a period, and his batting average during that time is far below that of his expectations. Even the best of hitters frequently experience hitting slumps. (I’ve been there a number of times…)
I recall one spring season in particular where I was rolling along, seeing the ball well and hitting it hard consistently, when all of a sudden, I went 0 for 18 in my next 18 at bats… Am I going too fast for you? OK, let me say it again for you a bit more slowly – that’s 0 for 18! A “zero” and then a “one” with an “eight” next to it. Eighteen at bats, zero hits, OUCH!
So how did I go about fixing or getting out of the slump? I was certainly getting "a lot of advice” from coaches, teammates, fans and friends related to the mechanics of my swing, all well intentioned of course, but not effective. I didn’t need to get out of my hitting mechanics, I needed to get out of my hitting slump! I needed to get into my own head and work on my mindset, going from where I was while in a slump; tense, impatient, anxious and anticipating bad results to a point where I was performing at my best and crushing the ball again.
As I’ve mentioned, every player, sooner or later, will run into a long hitting slump. It happens to youth players as well as Hall of Fame professionals. In fact, we know players can expect to run into multiple slumps throughout their careers — if not a single season! Some of this is due to luck. Much of it comes down to remaining positive and continuing to utilize a good “approach”. But slumps happen due to things both within and outside of a player’s control. Kind of like the Covid 19 pandemic…One thing I’ve learned and taken to heart since cancer is to not worry about things that are not in my control! In baseball, sometimes the opposition makes an amazing defensive play. Sometimes the umpire makes a bad call. Sometimes you’re just hit with a bout of dumb luck. We can’t get down when these things happen. All are outside of our control. Stressing over things that are outside of our control is pointless and will only make things worse.Probably the single biggest reason a player will fall into a prolonged slump is a loss of confidence. A person’s frame of mind will always impact performance and a lack of confidence will almost always lead to poor results. Confidence can change everything! By staying positive and continuing to take a good approach, things will turn around! As a “player” in both baseball and the game of life who has gone through a number of personal “slumps”, I have always tried to provide some additional attention and support to anyone I see “slumping” to help keep them thinking positively. We can all do the same by staying connected with those we love and care about, even if it’s digitally as we follow the guidelines established as we move forward in our current reality.I recently received a note from a good friend who runs a baseball instructional school in Texas. We go back a long way, as he was one of my first High School players at Sioux City Heelan High School where I began my coaching career. Tim and I have stayed in touch over the years as he works with young players of all ages, not only teaching them solid baseball skills, but also sharing his passion and life lessons learned from the game. Tim writes:Hi Coach,
Hope you're doing well during this crazy time. We're doing well down here, just tired of being cooped up. I was wondering if you would do me a favor please? One of the littlest guys I have is having a tough time with all this quarantine stuff. Sam is 6yrs old. Most of the time kids that age should be worried about nothing more than what the snack is after the game. Sam is a true baseball fan. His first lesson he told me how many days it was until spring training started. He eats sleeps and breaths baseball.
Anyway, I'm trying to find something a little different for Sam to boost his spirits a bit. If I send you a video of one of his swings would you mind making a few comments for me? Just the fact that his swing was looked at by a scout for the Braves should keep a smile on his face for a bit.
Thanks,
Tim
As you can see from Tim’s note, he has his priorities in the right place. His concern for young Sam is not just about his hitting mechanics, but rather about how he can lift 6-year-old Sam’s spirits in this time of isolation and quarantine.
I did respond to the video that Tim sent of Sam’s swing, breaking down Sam’s mechanics and added some positive words of encouragement. Sam’s mom sent back a thank you for helping place a smile back on Sam’s face, and I think we may have picked up yet another Braves fan in the process.
Sam, probably like most of us, is going through a wide range of emotions where many of the norms and guidelines we have lived by have changed dramatically. You may have felt denial, anger and sadness over the past month or so leading you into a “mental slump” as well. I want to reassure you that is OK! As always seems to be the case, my favorite author, Jon Gordon has some wisdom to share on this topic in a recent post titled IT’S OK TO NOT BE OKAY.
Jon Writes:
IT’S OKAY TO NOT BE OKAY It’s okay to not be okay.
You never want to ignore or deny how you feel.
Being positive doesn’t mean you suck it up and put a fake smile on your face.
It’s okay to go through a wide range of emotions and feel the stages of grief.
You might have felt denial, anger, sadness, acceptance and meaning over the last 4 to 5 weeks. Actually, you might even feel these stages and emotions in the course of a day.
There’s no rule book on how to feel during the course of a global pandemic where the rules and social norms of our lives have changed.
You were used to seeing your colleagues at the office, hugging your friends, going to church, taking your kids to school, eating at restaurants, going to sporting events, rooting for your favorite pro baseball or basketball team, gathering with friends, petting your neighbors dogs... and now you can’t.
You’re not used to seeing a daily ticker on the television screen counting the deaths of people around the world and in your country and seeing daily images of people in hospitals... and now you are.
So, if you aren’t okay, it’s okay.
It’s okay to be concerned about the loss of life, the condition of our economy and the expansion of authoritarian government policies. Some act like you have to pick one but it’s okay to concerned about all three simultaneously.
It’s okay to be scared, frustrated and feel down.
You just don’t want to stay there too long and allow these feelings to take you down a spiral staircase of depression and despair.
The key is to find the optimism, hope and faith to keep going and create a better future.
This is not about seeing the world through rose colored glasses. This is knowing you have the power to overcome the thorns.
You have the power to shift your perspective and turn your pain into purpose and struggle into strength.
One day I honestly was letting everything get the best of me. I realized my worry, fear, sadness and anger weren’t going to help me be my best or bring out the best in others.
So, I decided I wasn’t going to buy the doom and gloom being sold and told on the news and social media. Instead I was going to invest in faith, love and hope. Everything changed after that.
The biggest compliment I receive is that people will tell me I helped them keep going when they wanted to give up and I hope these words do this for you today.
Winston Churchill said, “If you are going through hell, don’t stop. Keep going!”
In other words, feel your feelings, give yourself permission to not be okay and then empower yourself with the tools you need to keep moving forward so you can be okay.
Keep believing, keep working, keep going!
Jon
As we face the “slumps” that may come our way in this life, let’s invest in each other with faith, hope and love. As 1 Corinthians 13:13 shares; “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”
There's no doubt that each of these virtues — faith, hope, and love — has great value. Faith is what motivates us to move forward even when the odds are against us. Hope keeps us moving forward, it’s what fuels us to face those difficult challenges and love is at the foundation for every good thing in our lives. Without love, nothing else matters.
May we serve each other in this manner in the days and weeks ahead!
Blessings your way!Be safe and be well!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated! Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
April 15, 2020
Reflections from the Home Team - April 15, 2020“Jackie’s ...
Reflections from the Home Team - April 15, 2020
“Jackie’s quote lays out a challenge to each of us as we confront the challenges the Covid 19 pandemic presents in all of our lives. Too often, we sit in the grandstand and watch as life is played out on the field in front of us. Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve."
Greetings from Cedar Falls!
Today is Jackie Robinson Day and I can’t think of a better time to recognize one of my favorite baseball heroes. Jackie endured unthinkable taunting and abuse as he broke the baseball color line on this day back in 1947. His impact on not only baseball, but on our country is literally immeasurable! I have held many of Jackie’s quotes in my heart over the years, but one in particular has touched me over the past several weeks.
“Life is not a spectator sport. If you're going to spend your whole life in the grandstand just watching what goes on, in my opinion you're wasting your life.”
Jackie’s quote lays out a challenge to each of us as we confront the challenges the Covid 19 pandemic presents in all of our lives. So too often, we sit in the grandstand and watch as life is played out on the field in front of us. Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve."
I read the story below online a couple weeks ago and it has found a special place in my heart because it demonstrates “getting back into the game” with compassion and kindness. It reads:
An elderly woman had finally succumbed to the coronavirus in a New York City hospital. Her doctor, overwhelmed with patients, talked to her son over the phone to give him the news.
The son asked the doctor if he could please take the phone to his mom’s room and put him on speaker so he could say a solemn Jewish prayer over his mom.
This doctor had more patients to see, but he realized this man never got to say goodbye to his mom and what this moment meant to him. So, he granted the man’s request. When he was done the man thanked the doctor. The doctor, in tears now, thanked the man because the experience of that prayer gave him the courage and strength that he needed to continue his work.
I’m guessing the doctor didn’t take the phone into the mother’s room for the son to pray over her to be a hero, but instead to show kindness and compassion to a family who got caught up in one of the terrible experiences this pandemic has caused. The power of presence (even digital presence) should never be underestimated and is most certainly one of the ways we can get back in the game!
When I was a kid, I often dreamed of being a hero, at first, probably some form of superhero -- Superman, Captain America, Captain Marvel (I loved Marvel comic books!). Then it progressed to be a great athlete like my some of my baseball heroes (Mickey Mantle, Jackie Robinson and Johnny Bench). What I didn’t know back then (and realize now) is that heroes don’t need to wear capes, or a sports uniform and they don’t have to have superpowers or amazing God-given talent. Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. All genders, all races, and all religions.
They are doctors and nurses serving on the front lines, hospital cleaning crews, drivers making sure there is food at the grocery store for us. And they’re the ones stocking those grocery shelves, working the checkout registers. They are the people sitting out in front of our neighborhood schools at lunchtime passing out lunches to students who come by for perhaps their only decent meal of the day. (I witnessed that at Holmes Jr. High last week). They are also the teachers, who are delivering lessons to their students online now. This list could go on and on and on…
Sometimes, the things we see as obstacles, as rocks in our path, (such as this pandemic) are really opportunities, treasures in disguise. There is no easy path to success, and I’m sure that as we talk about each of our journeys, we will discover that we all have had some rocks or stones in each of our paths over the years.
My motto has always been “BE READY BECAUSE YOU MAY BE THE DIFFERENCE IN SOMEONE’S LIFE AT ANY MOMENT OF THE DAY!” It brings to mind a letter I received from a good friend who coached High School baseball in northern Wisconsin for a number of years. We got to know each other as we were presenting at a coaching seminar and the letter came at a time when both of us were questioning whether we were having an impact on the student athletes we were working with. The letter spoke to my heart and has demonstrated how we never know when or where we may have an opportunity to impact others.
It reads:
Coach Welter,
Over twenty years of coaching has left me with the same frustrations that were driving many of us out of the profession. In a society that emphasized immediate and easy gratification, I was emphasizing hard work and self-denial. In a work force that expected more pay for fewer hours I was putting in more hours and the salary was insulting. I thought my work was important, but nobody else seemed to care… Sometimes I wondered if it was worth it.
A tragedy convinced me it was. Late one afternoon last July as my wife and I prepared to go out, my catcher came running to the house. “Coach, come quick, Chad’s been hurt really bad.” Chad, one of my starting pitchers had wrecked his motorcycle two blocks from my house. I dropped everything and ran to the scene. When I got there, the paramedics were loading Chad into the ambulance. So, I raced back home and drove to the hospital. The ER nurse explained that Chad was in critical condition and that nobody could find his parents. A little later, we learned that his parents were away camping in Minnesota. Even if we could reach them, they had at least a five-hour drive ahead of them to get to the hospital.
As word of the accident spread, Chad’s teammates started showing up in the waiting room. For most of them, this was the first time the threat of death was so close. It was obvious that the doctors had a job to do in the ER and I had a job to do in the waiting room. A little later, the nurse told us that Chad would be transferred to University Hospital in Madison as soon as a med-flight helicopter was available. I knew I had to drive to Madison so somebody would be there with Chad.
I arrived at University hospital before Chad did. I explained that I was the closest thing to family that Chad had until we could reach his parents. The doctor told me that Chad’s condition was very grave and that my job was to help the family when they arrived. “Also, if you believe in God, a few prayers are in order.”
When the helicopter arrived, I stepped out into the hall and caught a glimpse of Chad as they rolled him in. He was unconscious and his face was badly swollen. I knew that if anyone could make it, Chad could. He was solid muscle and a tough kid, but I was beginning to realize that those qualities might not be enough. Somebody finally contacted Chad’s parents. His mother was worried that nobody was there with Chad, but the nurse told her that I was with him and would stay until his parents arrived. At least her son was not facing this ordeal alone.
As the evening dragged on, the waiting room filled with teammates. There was no word from the emergency room. This was a mixed blessing because everyone was afraid of what the word might be when it did come. Time magnified the frustration and anxiety of Chad’s teammates. They were young, impetuous and strong. They were not accustomed to sitting helplessly and waiting. They had stormed through many obstacles, but this was one they couldn’t run over. One by one, the frustration overwhelmed them. One went into the Chapel and prayed; One walked out into the parking lot and pounded on a wall. Another wandered through the halls. Once again, I had a job to do.
Finally, Chad’s family arrived. Their minister consoled the parents and I took a long walk with Dan, Chad’s younger brother. I couldn’t answer the questions he asked, nobody could. So, we just walked and talked. About 1:30 am, the doctors called the family into a consultation room and confirmed everyone’s worst fear; Chad was dead.
The waiting room erupted into a babel of praying, swearing and crying. These were young men who were not used to losing, and they had just lost the biggest one of all. All those locker room platitudes, about the game of life were now excruciatingly true. Someone ran up to me and said, “Coach, you better help Dan. He looks like he is going to lose it.” So, while Chad’s father comforted his wife, I put my arm around Dan and tried to steady him. The four of us walked into the darkened room where Chad’s body lay. As we left Chad, his father turned to me and said; “Coach, I really believe that somehow, Chad knew you were with him tonight. Thanks for being here.” It was 3 o’clock in the morning as I drove home. I prayed. I prayed for Chad, I prayed for his family and I prayed for Chad’s teammates. I also thanked God for making me a coach!
As always,
Your friend, Joe
A lot of things ran through my mind after reading this letter… I have stressed many of the things Joe mentioned in his letter as a teacher, coach and principal. Sometimes students, athletes and parents just don’t buy into it. Despite that, as Joe said, it took a tragedy to convince him it was all worth it. His special relationship with his squad and with Chad was a good example of the importance of relationships and are the key to building the strength and support needed to survive and move forward through life’s challenges. As Colossians 3:12 shares: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” The power of presence should never be underestimated!
I think most of us grew up wanting to be heroes. This is our chance. This is our moment. Let’s find a way to contribute. Lift someone’s spirits today. Be an encourager in someone else’s life. Be a hero!
Stay healthy and be well!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
“Jackie’s quote lays out a challenge to each of us as we confront the challenges the Covid 19 pandemic presents in all of our lives. Too often, we sit in the grandstand and watch as life is played out on the field in front of us. Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve."
Greetings from Cedar Falls!
Today is Jackie Robinson Day and I can’t think of a better time to recognize one of my favorite baseball heroes. Jackie endured unthinkable taunting and abuse as he broke the baseball color line on this day back in 1947. His impact on not only baseball, but on our country is literally immeasurable! I have held many of Jackie’s quotes in my heart over the years, but one in particular has touched me over the past several weeks.
“Life is not a spectator sport. If you're going to spend your whole life in the grandstand just watching what goes on, in my opinion you're wasting your life.”
Jackie’s quote lays out a challenge to each of us as we confront the challenges the Covid 19 pandemic presents in all of our lives. So too often, we sit in the grandstand and watch as life is played out on the field in front of us. Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve."
I read the story below online a couple weeks ago and it has found a special place in my heart because it demonstrates “getting back into the game” with compassion and kindness. It reads:
An elderly woman had finally succumbed to the coronavirus in a New York City hospital. Her doctor, overwhelmed with patients, talked to her son over the phone to give him the news.
The son asked the doctor if he could please take the phone to his mom’s room and put him on speaker so he could say a solemn Jewish prayer over his mom.
This doctor had more patients to see, but he realized this man never got to say goodbye to his mom and what this moment meant to him. So, he granted the man’s request. When he was done the man thanked the doctor. The doctor, in tears now, thanked the man because the experience of that prayer gave him the courage and strength that he needed to continue his work.
I’m guessing the doctor didn’t take the phone into the mother’s room for the son to pray over her to be a hero, but instead to show kindness and compassion to a family who got caught up in one of the terrible experiences this pandemic has caused. The power of presence (even digital presence) should never be underestimated and is most certainly one of the ways we can get back in the game!
When I was a kid, I often dreamed of being a hero, at first, probably some form of superhero -- Superman, Captain America, Captain Marvel (I loved Marvel comic books!). Then it progressed to be a great athlete like my some of my baseball heroes (Mickey Mantle, Jackie Robinson and Johnny Bench). What I didn’t know back then (and realize now) is that heroes don’t need to wear capes, or a sports uniform and they don’t have to have superpowers or amazing God-given talent. Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. All genders, all races, and all religions.
They are doctors and nurses serving on the front lines, hospital cleaning crews, drivers making sure there is food at the grocery store for us. And they’re the ones stocking those grocery shelves, working the checkout registers. They are the people sitting out in front of our neighborhood schools at lunchtime passing out lunches to students who come by for perhaps their only decent meal of the day. (I witnessed that at Holmes Jr. High last week). They are also the teachers, who are delivering lessons to their students online now. This list could go on and on and on…
Sometimes, the things we see as obstacles, as rocks in our path, (such as this pandemic) are really opportunities, treasures in disguise. There is no easy path to success, and I’m sure that as we talk about each of our journeys, we will discover that we all have had some rocks or stones in each of our paths over the years.
My motto has always been “BE READY BECAUSE YOU MAY BE THE DIFFERENCE IN SOMEONE’S LIFE AT ANY MOMENT OF THE DAY!” It brings to mind a letter I received from a good friend who coached High School baseball in northern Wisconsin for a number of years. We got to know each other as we were presenting at a coaching seminar and the letter came at a time when both of us were questioning whether we were having an impact on the student athletes we were working with. The letter spoke to my heart and has demonstrated how we never know when or where we may have an opportunity to impact others.
It reads:
Coach Welter,
Over twenty years of coaching has left me with the same frustrations that were driving many of us out of the profession. In a society that emphasized immediate and easy gratification, I was emphasizing hard work and self-denial. In a work force that expected more pay for fewer hours I was putting in more hours and the salary was insulting. I thought my work was important, but nobody else seemed to care… Sometimes I wondered if it was worth it.
A tragedy convinced me it was. Late one afternoon last July as my wife and I prepared to go out, my catcher came running to the house. “Coach, come quick, Chad’s been hurt really bad.” Chad, one of my starting pitchers had wrecked his motorcycle two blocks from my house. I dropped everything and ran to the scene. When I got there, the paramedics were loading Chad into the ambulance. So, I raced back home and drove to the hospital. The ER nurse explained that Chad was in critical condition and that nobody could find his parents. A little later, we learned that his parents were away camping in Minnesota. Even if we could reach them, they had at least a five-hour drive ahead of them to get to the hospital.
As word of the accident spread, Chad’s teammates started showing up in the waiting room. For most of them, this was the first time the threat of death was so close. It was obvious that the doctors had a job to do in the ER and I had a job to do in the waiting room. A little later, the nurse told us that Chad would be transferred to University Hospital in Madison as soon as a med-flight helicopter was available. I knew I had to drive to Madison so somebody would be there with Chad.
I arrived at University hospital before Chad did. I explained that I was the closest thing to family that Chad had until we could reach his parents. The doctor told me that Chad’s condition was very grave and that my job was to help the family when they arrived. “Also, if you believe in God, a few prayers are in order.”
When the helicopter arrived, I stepped out into the hall and caught a glimpse of Chad as they rolled him in. He was unconscious and his face was badly swollen. I knew that if anyone could make it, Chad could. He was solid muscle and a tough kid, but I was beginning to realize that those qualities might not be enough. Somebody finally contacted Chad’s parents. His mother was worried that nobody was there with Chad, but the nurse told her that I was with him and would stay until his parents arrived. At least her son was not facing this ordeal alone.
As the evening dragged on, the waiting room filled with teammates. There was no word from the emergency room. This was a mixed blessing because everyone was afraid of what the word might be when it did come. Time magnified the frustration and anxiety of Chad’s teammates. They were young, impetuous and strong. They were not accustomed to sitting helplessly and waiting. They had stormed through many obstacles, but this was one they couldn’t run over. One by one, the frustration overwhelmed them. One went into the Chapel and prayed; One walked out into the parking lot and pounded on a wall. Another wandered through the halls. Once again, I had a job to do.
Finally, Chad’s family arrived. Their minister consoled the parents and I took a long walk with Dan, Chad’s younger brother. I couldn’t answer the questions he asked, nobody could. So, we just walked and talked. About 1:30 am, the doctors called the family into a consultation room and confirmed everyone’s worst fear; Chad was dead.
The waiting room erupted into a babel of praying, swearing and crying. These were young men who were not used to losing, and they had just lost the biggest one of all. All those locker room platitudes, about the game of life were now excruciatingly true. Someone ran up to me and said, “Coach, you better help Dan. He looks like he is going to lose it.” So, while Chad’s father comforted his wife, I put my arm around Dan and tried to steady him. The four of us walked into the darkened room where Chad’s body lay. As we left Chad, his father turned to me and said; “Coach, I really believe that somehow, Chad knew you were with him tonight. Thanks for being here.” It was 3 o’clock in the morning as I drove home. I prayed. I prayed for Chad, I prayed for his family and I prayed for Chad’s teammates. I also thanked God for making me a coach!
As always,
Your friend, Joe
A lot of things ran through my mind after reading this letter… I have stressed many of the things Joe mentioned in his letter as a teacher, coach and principal. Sometimes students, athletes and parents just don’t buy into it. Despite that, as Joe said, it took a tragedy to convince him it was all worth it. His special relationship with his squad and with Chad was a good example of the importance of relationships and are the key to building the strength and support needed to survive and move forward through life’s challenges. As Colossians 3:12 shares: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” The power of presence should never be underestimated!
I think most of us grew up wanting to be heroes. This is our chance. This is our moment. Let’s find a way to contribute. Lift someone’s spirits today. Be an encourager in someone else’s life. Be a hero!
Stay healthy and be well!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated! Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
April 10, 2020
Reflections from the Home Team - April 10, 2020“I believe...
Reflections from the Home Team - April 10, 2020
“I believe everyone can trace their good qualities to a handful of life lessons that helped shape their mind and body. If you look deep into your soul, I’m sure something will come to mind. These life changing events and experiences are what form our opinions, work ethic, life goals, and define the essence of our being. For me, baseball has taught me these life lessons over a number of decades as a young person, as a player and as a coach.”
Greetings from Cedar Falls,
It seems every recent text, email and conversation with friends begins with, "This is crazy”, or “When are we going to get back to normal?” It sometimes feels like we are living in a bad movie experiencing a surreal moment that made us confront the reality that this isn't a game or a movie, but rather, life as we now have come to know it. While the NCAA didn't host “March Madness” this year because of the Corona Virus, we certainly experienced our own version of “March Madness”.
The goal of athletic teams, whether basketball, baseball, football, volleyball, wrestling or for that matter, any competitive sport during playoffs, is to survive and advance. Teams want to somehow, someway make it through one round to advance to the next. How they do it doesn't have to be pretty and they may not play their best. They just want to win the battle today to give themselves a shot to compete in the next round where they hope to adapt and ultimately advance.
From a physical standpoint, I think that should be the goal for all of us in the upcoming months when competing against this virus. We currently have a new and different version of a virus that we haven't experienced before. My personal goal is to survive it by strengthening my immune system, (working on that daily) and do my best to win the battle each day. By allowing my body to adapt so I can ultimately be stronger, I can continue on with my life journey according to God’s plan.
There have been many life lessons along the way for me that have helped me in this process, and I’ve tried my best to articulate some of those through my reflections. I believe everyone can trace their good qualities to a handful of life lessons that helped shape their mind and body. These life changing events and experiences are what form our opinions, work ethic, life goals, and define the essence of our being. For me, baseball has taught me many of these life lessons over a number of decades as a young person, as a player and as a coach.
When I was young, I grew up on a farm outside of town. My dad actually took some of his crop out of production (a real sacrifice) and together, we built a baseball field so we could play and host neighborhood games. The “neighborhood” consisted of about a 12 square mile area. No adults, no umpires, just us kids left to learn and play the game. Many of the “kids” in the neighborhood were older than me and my siblings, so we had to “play up” and any success I may have had made me want more, it was “infectious and contagious” to coin a phrase used a lot these days. This was my first life lesson… being successful and achieving goals was a most gratifying feeling, and I wanted to have that feeling as much as possible.
When I got to my teenage years, I was introduced to organized baseball “in town”. I looked forward to playing every day, riding my bike into town from the farm to play on several different teams. I looked forward to making the high school team because they played home and away games like a real baseball team and they practiced every day. I actually hoped to make the varsity squad as a sophomore as we had a pretty talented class and I had pretty much always played up with older athletes, but that didn’t happen as our coach wisely allowed upperclassmen their opportunity to compete first. This is how I learned the lesson of delayed gratification. As I invest time and effort into my present-day ventures, I look back at that experience as a formative time. There are many times in my life that have required delayed gratification. If it weren’t for not making the varsity squad my sophomore year, I might have felt entitled to success in the game and in life.
When I was in high school, we had answering machines…. not voicemail. I remember coming home on a random spring day after practice and my dad said, “there’s a message for you on the machine.” It was a college asking me to come visit as the coach wanted me to come and play for his school. I called him back and a couple months later I was enrolled as student athlete getting the opportunity to be a college baseball and football player. This was an amazing opportunity for me because I never viewed myself as being naturally talented like many of my teammates. I had to spend more time than anyone else on the field, in the weight room and in the batting cages in order to compete and succeed by getting to the next level. And as they often say… the rest is history.
Throughout my high school and college years I made amazing friendships and earned a place in what I refer to as the “Baseball Fraternity.” It’s not a real Fraternity, but an unspoken bond that baseball players have with each other. This exists between guys that KNOW the grind of playing competitively and doing whatever it takes to get to the next level. “Getting to the next level…” has been the MOST valuable lesson I learned from baseball. I may not always have been the most talented, but I will NOT be outworked.
I believe I am where I am and who I am today because I played the game. I look back at my competitive baseball years and truly believe the lessons learned were more valuable than many of those I learned in the classroom. Baseball is a passion that I simply cannot shake. I still learn lessons from the game today, even as I have reached an age when my mind tells my body one thing, and my body goes a completely different way in response… Despite that, we are never too old to learn!
As we have lost opening day this year, a time that normally gets us excited for the new season wondering what team will win it all in October, there are still many other victories to be earned other than simply earning a W. I recently read a piece entitled Opening Day - Life Lessons from Baseball and I wanted to share it with you as I know many of you have young players in your house. I hope you enjoy reading this piece. I think we all know as parents that there are MANY lessons that are learned from sports, but somehow, baseball sticks out for me… Imagine that!! Opening Day - Life Lessons from Baseball Credit to Spell it out photos...
Don’t Argue Balls and Strikes – Even if you are 100% sure that it was bad call. Try not to blow up in the umpire’s face. It will usually result in an even worse outcome. Have you EVER seen an umpire change a ball/strike call.
Life Lesson: Learn to avoid the battles that can’t be won. Take the good with the bad and trust that the law of averages will eventually be on your side.
Attitude Matters – Tuck in your shirt, run to your position, and don’t ever throw your helmet.
Life Lesson: Take it seriously but have fun. If things don’t go your way, don’t throw a fit, just figure out how to do it better next time. This is the attitude that makes a good employee, person, spouse, and friend.
Learn to Bounce Back – You will strike out. You will make an error. You will try to steal a base and fail. Baseball is a game of failure, so use these setbacks as learning experiences. Failing isn’t bad. In baseball, if you fail 50% of the time at the plate, you have an incredible batting average.
Life Lesson: Don’t let your failures blind you from your successes. Put yourself out there and learn from the setbacks. Don’t be afraid to take chances or let failure stop you from trying again.
Collect Yourself – A pick-off attempt is made, and you dive back into first. Don’t be afraid to call time, brush yourself off, straighten your hat, and then lead off again.
Life Lesson: Learn to take small moments in life to collect yourself.
Don’t be Intimidated – It’s the pitcher’s job to intimidate you as a batter. He will throw curve balls at your head and inside pitches to your body. Who owns that plate, you or the pitcher? If the pitcher takes control, you lose. Don’t get intimidated, stand close to the plate and get your bat ready for what’s next.
Life Lesson: Who controls your life? You do. Stand tall, take control, and don’t let outside forces intimidate you.
Practice Teamwork – Getting to know your fellow team members, their habits, strengths, and weaknesses can serve to develop a solid core of trust and communication on the field. It’s the chemistry that makes good teams great.
Life Lesson: Take the time to get to know your teammates in life. Learn what they can do for you, but more importantly, what you can do for them, and how you can succeed together.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask / Don’t Stop Learning – Having trouble with your swing? Not sure where the weakness in the strike zone is? The best ball players are those that are always trying to find out from others, what they cannot see themselves. What may seem impossible for you to spot may be immediately obvious to others.
Life Lesson: Don’t be afraid to ask for advice, help, or some on-the-side coaching. More importantly, be coachable…
These are just a few of the valuable lessons learned from the game that I love which I have put to good use in my life… I’m hopeful they may do the same for you and your loved ones!
Getting back to my opening thought with regard to friends asking - “When are we going to get back to normal???” Well, today’s numbers are showing that the United States has the leading number of cases of corona virus in the world. Many states like Washington, Louisiana, and California are functioning under a ‘stay at home’ or ‘shelter in place’ order. Countries all over the world are working to flatten the curve that this pandemic is taking. Regardless of age, demographic, or underlying health issues, it seems the corona virus is capable of infecting all. Which leads many to ask the question: How did this happen, and where is God? In the face of suffering, many refute the claims of God, others blame Him for their pain, while few bless and worship Him. In our Wednesday morning Men’s Bible Study, we studied the life of Job a few months ago. In Job, we see a man faced with great suffering—who lost everything. So, what does the book of Job teach us about the Corona virus?
We can find comfort in the midst of this pandemic the same way Job found comfort. His hope, allegiance, joy, identity and ultimate satisfaction was not found in his possessions, his family, or his health. They were found in the everlasting, blessed name of the Lord. We must remember throughout this pandemic that our hope is not found in our people, our health, or our things, but in the Lord. We should expect suffering as Christians, but can also trust scripture like when Peter states that; “After you have suffered a little while, [God] will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever.” 1 Peter 5:10-11
God is here, reigning sovereignly over all things—whether we are restored in this life from our suffering, or the next. We do not know His reasons, but we do know His plans cannot be thwarted.
“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.” Job 42:2.
As for the question of when we will get back to normal? I recently read a post from a good friend who owns TJ’s Christian Book Store here in Cedar Falls. She has been posting encouraging messages on a daily basis, and I very much appreciate them. This post was shared with her by a good friend of hers and has found a special place in my heart as an answer to this question… Thanks Joyce!!
I Pray We Don’t Go Back to Normal... 1. I pray that the next time a friend grabs me and pulls me in for a hug, I actually take the time to appreciate the gift of their embrace.
2. I pray that when school resumes and people are dropping kids off, they take the time to thank the staff for the amazing gift that they give to our community.
3. I pray that the next time I’m sitting in a crowded restaurant I take the time to look around at the smiling faces, loud voices and thank God for the gift of community.
4. I pray that the next time I’m standing in church listening to the voices of praise and worship that I take a moment to thank God for the gift of congregation.
5. I pray that the next time I see a person or situation that needs prayer, I hope I pray as passionately and fervently as I have these past few weeks.
6. I pray that when I am at the grocery store that I take a moment to thank God that He provides us with the necessities of life and the amazing people who work so hard to keep us supplied.
7. I pray that I never again take for granted the ability to hop in the car and visit a friend, go to the mall, go to a gathering, etc.
So, truth is, I don’t want things to return to the way they once were. I pray that we take the lessons and challenges of the past few weeks and create a new normal. My goal is to pray more, love harder, and truly appreciate the daily abundance of blessings that were so easily overlooked just a mere few weeks ago. Have a blessed day!
As Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 says; “There is a time for everything … a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.”
God wired us all with emotions and I am learning to allow them to accompany me on the road of life instead of pretending they don’t exist or really don’t matter… His Word provides the perspective I need. It helps pick me up. He gives me permission to feel, to be sad, yes, even to be anxious. His grace gives the strength I need to handle the hard emotions. The Bible tells us to give thanks in everything. I choose to thank God in the midst of all my emotions. (and there have been a lot of them!) There’s a power in praise that doesn’t eliminate sadness and anxiety, but it certainly does soothe and soften it.
As we approach this Easter Sunday in a way that we have never done before, let’s choose to thank God for the gift of His Son Jesus, bless His great name, trust His loving heart, and give Him praise today and every day as we move through this time together.Remember...Many persons may love you,Many people may like you,But there is only ONE who died for YOU❣️
Wishing you all a Blessed and Happy Easter!Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:
www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
“I believe everyone can trace their good qualities to a handful of life lessons that helped shape their mind and body. If you look deep into your soul, I’m sure something will come to mind. These life changing events and experiences are what form our opinions, work ethic, life goals, and define the essence of our being. For me, baseball has taught me these life lessons over a number of decades as a young person, as a player and as a coach.”
Greetings from Cedar Falls,
It seems every recent text, email and conversation with friends begins with, "This is crazy”, or “When are we going to get back to normal?” It sometimes feels like we are living in a bad movie experiencing a surreal moment that made us confront the reality that this isn't a game or a movie, but rather, life as we now have come to know it. While the NCAA didn't host “March Madness” this year because of the Corona Virus, we certainly experienced our own version of “March Madness”.
The goal of athletic teams, whether basketball, baseball, football, volleyball, wrestling or for that matter, any competitive sport during playoffs, is to survive and advance. Teams want to somehow, someway make it through one round to advance to the next. How they do it doesn't have to be pretty and they may not play their best. They just want to win the battle today to give themselves a shot to compete in the next round where they hope to adapt and ultimately advance.
From a physical standpoint, I think that should be the goal for all of us in the upcoming months when competing against this virus. We currently have a new and different version of a virus that we haven't experienced before. My personal goal is to survive it by strengthening my immune system, (working on that daily) and do my best to win the battle each day. By allowing my body to adapt so I can ultimately be stronger, I can continue on with my life journey according to God’s plan.
There have been many life lessons along the way for me that have helped me in this process, and I’ve tried my best to articulate some of those through my reflections. I believe everyone can trace their good qualities to a handful of life lessons that helped shape their mind and body. These life changing events and experiences are what form our opinions, work ethic, life goals, and define the essence of our being. For me, baseball has taught me many of these life lessons over a number of decades as a young person, as a player and as a coach.
When I was young, I grew up on a farm outside of town. My dad actually took some of his crop out of production (a real sacrifice) and together, we built a baseball field so we could play and host neighborhood games. The “neighborhood” consisted of about a 12 square mile area. No adults, no umpires, just us kids left to learn and play the game. Many of the “kids” in the neighborhood were older than me and my siblings, so we had to “play up” and any success I may have had made me want more, it was “infectious and contagious” to coin a phrase used a lot these days. This was my first life lesson… being successful and achieving goals was a most gratifying feeling, and I wanted to have that feeling as much as possible.
When I got to my teenage years, I was introduced to organized baseball “in town”. I looked forward to playing every day, riding my bike into town from the farm to play on several different teams. I looked forward to making the high school team because they played home and away games like a real baseball team and they practiced every day. I actually hoped to make the varsity squad as a sophomore as we had a pretty talented class and I had pretty much always played up with older athletes, but that didn’t happen as our coach wisely allowed upperclassmen their opportunity to compete first. This is how I learned the lesson of delayed gratification. As I invest time and effort into my present-day ventures, I look back at that experience as a formative time. There are many times in my life that have required delayed gratification. If it weren’t for not making the varsity squad my sophomore year, I might have felt entitled to success in the game and in life.
When I was in high school, we had answering machines…. not voicemail. I remember coming home on a random spring day after practice and my dad said, “there’s a message for you on the machine.” It was a college asking me to come visit as the coach wanted me to come and play for his school. I called him back and a couple months later I was enrolled as student athlete getting the opportunity to be a college baseball and football player. This was an amazing opportunity for me because I never viewed myself as being naturally talented like many of my teammates. I had to spend more time than anyone else on the field, in the weight room and in the batting cages in order to compete and succeed by getting to the next level. And as they often say… the rest is history.
Throughout my high school and college years I made amazing friendships and earned a place in what I refer to as the “Baseball Fraternity.” It’s not a real Fraternity, but an unspoken bond that baseball players have with each other. This exists between guys that KNOW the grind of playing competitively and doing whatever it takes to get to the next level. “Getting to the next level…” has been the MOST valuable lesson I learned from baseball. I may not always have been the most talented, but I will NOT be outworked.
I believe I am where I am and who I am today because I played the game. I look back at my competitive baseball years and truly believe the lessons learned were more valuable than many of those I learned in the classroom. Baseball is a passion that I simply cannot shake. I still learn lessons from the game today, even as I have reached an age when my mind tells my body one thing, and my body goes a completely different way in response… Despite that, we are never too old to learn!
As we have lost opening day this year, a time that normally gets us excited for the new season wondering what team will win it all in October, there are still many other victories to be earned other than simply earning a W. I recently read a piece entitled Opening Day - Life Lessons from Baseball and I wanted to share it with you as I know many of you have young players in your house. I hope you enjoy reading this piece. I think we all know as parents that there are MANY lessons that are learned from sports, but somehow, baseball sticks out for me… Imagine that!! Opening Day - Life Lessons from Baseball Credit to Spell it out photos...
Don’t Argue Balls and Strikes – Even if you are 100% sure that it was bad call. Try not to blow up in the umpire’s face. It will usually result in an even worse outcome. Have you EVER seen an umpire change a ball/strike call.
Life Lesson: Learn to avoid the battles that can’t be won. Take the good with the bad and trust that the law of averages will eventually be on your side.
Attitude Matters – Tuck in your shirt, run to your position, and don’t ever throw your helmet.
Life Lesson: Take it seriously but have fun. If things don’t go your way, don’t throw a fit, just figure out how to do it better next time. This is the attitude that makes a good employee, person, spouse, and friend.
Learn to Bounce Back – You will strike out. You will make an error. You will try to steal a base and fail. Baseball is a game of failure, so use these setbacks as learning experiences. Failing isn’t bad. In baseball, if you fail 50% of the time at the plate, you have an incredible batting average.
Life Lesson: Don’t let your failures blind you from your successes. Put yourself out there and learn from the setbacks. Don’t be afraid to take chances or let failure stop you from trying again.
Collect Yourself – A pick-off attempt is made, and you dive back into first. Don’t be afraid to call time, brush yourself off, straighten your hat, and then lead off again.
Life Lesson: Learn to take small moments in life to collect yourself.
Don’t be Intimidated – It’s the pitcher’s job to intimidate you as a batter. He will throw curve balls at your head and inside pitches to your body. Who owns that plate, you or the pitcher? If the pitcher takes control, you lose. Don’t get intimidated, stand close to the plate and get your bat ready for what’s next.
Life Lesson: Who controls your life? You do. Stand tall, take control, and don’t let outside forces intimidate you.
Practice Teamwork – Getting to know your fellow team members, their habits, strengths, and weaknesses can serve to develop a solid core of trust and communication on the field. It’s the chemistry that makes good teams great.
Life Lesson: Take the time to get to know your teammates in life. Learn what they can do for you, but more importantly, what you can do for them, and how you can succeed together.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask / Don’t Stop Learning – Having trouble with your swing? Not sure where the weakness in the strike zone is? The best ball players are those that are always trying to find out from others, what they cannot see themselves. What may seem impossible for you to spot may be immediately obvious to others.
Life Lesson: Don’t be afraid to ask for advice, help, or some on-the-side coaching. More importantly, be coachable…
These are just a few of the valuable lessons learned from the game that I love which I have put to good use in my life… I’m hopeful they may do the same for you and your loved ones!
Getting back to my opening thought with regard to friends asking - “When are we going to get back to normal???” Well, today’s numbers are showing that the United States has the leading number of cases of corona virus in the world. Many states like Washington, Louisiana, and California are functioning under a ‘stay at home’ or ‘shelter in place’ order. Countries all over the world are working to flatten the curve that this pandemic is taking. Regardless of age, demographic, or underlying health issues, it seems the corona virus is capable of infecting all. Which leads many to ask the question: How did this happen, and where is God? In the face of suffering, many refute the claims of God, others blame Him for their pain, while few bless and worship Him. In our Wednesday morning Men’s Bible Study, we studied the life of Job a few months ago. In Job, we see a man faced with great suffering—who lost everything. So, what does the book of Job teach us about the Corona virus?
We can find comfort in the midst of this pandemic the same way Job found comfort. His hope, allegiance, joy, identity and ultimate satisfaction was not found in his possessions, his family, or his health. They were found in the everlasting, blessed name of the Lord. We must remember throughout this pandemic that our hope is not found in our people, our health, or our things, but in the Lord. We should expect suffering as Christians, but can also trust scripture like when Peter states that; “After you have suffered a little while, [God] will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever.” 1 Peter 5:10-11
God is here, reigning sovereignly over all things—whether we are restored in this life from our suffering, or the next. We do not know His reasons, but we do know His plans cannot be thwarted.
“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.” Job 42:2.
As for the question of when we will get back to normal? I recently read a post from a good friend who owns TJ’s Christian Book Store here in Cedar Falls. She has been posting encouraging messages on a daily basis, and I very much appreciate them. This post was shared with her by a good friend of hers and has found a special place in my heart as an answer to this question… Thanks Joyce!!
I Pray We Don’t Go Back to Normal... 1. I pray that the next time a friend grabs me and pulls me in for a hug, I actually take the time to appreciate the gift of their embrace.
2. I pray that when school resumes and people are dropping kids off, they take the time to thank the staff for the amazing gift that they give to our community.
3. I pray that the next time I’m sitting in a crowded restaurant I take the time to look around at the smiling faces, loud voices and thank God for the gift of community.
4. I pray that the next time I’m standing in church listening to the voices of praise and worship that I take a moment to thank God for the gift of congregation.
5. I pray that the next time I see a person or situation that needs prayer, I hope I pray as passionately and fervently as I have these past few weeks.
6. I pray that when I am at the grocery store that I take a moment to thank God that He provides us with the necessities of life and the amazing people who work so hard to keep us supplied.
7. I pray that I never again take for granted the ability to hop in the car and visit a friend, go to the mall, go to a gathering, etc.
So, truth is, I don’t want things to return to the way they once were. I pray that we take the lessons and challenges of the past few weeks and create a new normal. My goal is to pray more, love harder, and truly appreciate the daily abundance of blessings that were so easily overlooked just a mere few weeks ago. Have a blessed day!
As Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 says; “There is a time for everything … a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.”
God wired us all with emotions and I am learning to allow them to accompany me on the road of life instead of pretending they don’t exist or really don’t matter… His Word provides the perspective I need. It helps pick me up. He gives me permission to feel, to be sad, yes, even to be anxious. His grace gives the strength I need to handle the hard emotions. The Bible tells us to give thanks in everything. I choose to thank God in the midst of all my emotions. (and there have been a lot of them!) There’s a power in praise that doesn’t eliminate sadness and anxiety, but it certainly does soothe and soften it.
As we approach this Easter Sunday in a way that we have never done before, let’s choose to thank God for the gift of His Son Jesus, bless His great name, trust His loving heart, and give Him praise today and every day as we move through this time together.Remember...Many persons may love you,Many people may like you,But there is only ONE who died for YOU❣️
Wishing you all a Blessed and Happy Easter!Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:
www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
April 4, 2020
Reflections from the Home Team - April 4, 2020“We all mos...
Reflections from the Home Team - April 4, 2020
“We all most likely can acknowledge that at some time we have burned the candle at both ends… We all need MARGIN in our lives (and I’m not referring to ‘physical distancing’ here …) Simply put, MARGIN = what may be missing in our lives, and the COVID -19 challenge is providing us that opportunity.”
Greetings from Cedar Falls,
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues, bringing with it all the frustrations that force changes in our daily lives, I firmly believe we will get through this together with thoughtful, consistent, science-based and open communication and decision-making. Right now, we are on defense concerning the virus and hunkering down through social distancing, washing hands constantly and avoiding touching one’s face. This is the way for the time being. It has been frustrating for many. I know I feel it not being able to see my mom “in person” on a regular basis, but we know it is for the good of not only her, but others as well. There will always be some uncertainty about the underlying science as this is a new experience for all of us, and by applying a precautionary approach where uncertainty exists, and implementing well-reasoned decisions about how best to limit the dissemination of COVID-19, things will improve. It is unfortunate we are not as prepared as we could have been, given the many years we've been planning for pandemic influenza. But rather than criticizing past decisions, I am hopeful we can move forward together in a way that ensures our healthcare and other high-priority workforces have the highest degree of protection possible. And perhaps we'll make better decisions going forward, once this pandemic is over.As you may know, I always try to find positives in challenges that come our way, and this is certainly one of them! The social distancing and isolation practices being employed have provided me more time to read and reflect on the thoughts and experiences of others. Tricia and I are currently reading a book for our Small Group Bible Study titled The Good and Beautiful God by James Bryan Smith. Wonderful book, and as is often the case, this read had led me to another author who has given me some valuable perspectives that help me understand and get through this current pandemic challenge. Smith does an excellent job of helping us discover the narratives that Jesus lived by vs. the often-false narratives we have come to develop about God in our daily lives. He also provides some spiritual exercises he refers to as Soul Training that help us develop and grow in the knowledge of our good and beautiful God. This week’s Soul Training exercise involves the concept of “Margin”.Given that backdrop, Smith introduces us in the Soul Training exercise to Dr. Richard Swenson who has written a book by the title Margin. Imagine that… As we all are aware from our English classes, margin refers to the space on the edge of a paper where there is no text. Swenson points out that the pages we read in a book have margins on the top, bottom and sides. If words stretched from top to bottom and to both edges, there would be no margin. Swenson points out that our lives are often like that… I know personally I can relate to that. So often, I have added so much to my schedule that I have little “margin” for leisure and rest and family and health and God. I think that may describe many of our situations “pre” COVID-19.Dr. Swenson describes margin and being marginless this way:“The conditions of modern-day living devour margin… Marginless is being 30 minutes late to the doctor’s office because you were 20 minutes late out of the hairdresser’s because you were ten minutes late dropping the children off at school because the car ran out of gas two blocks from the gas station - and you forgot your purse.
Margin on the other hand is having breath left at the top of the staircase, money left at the end of the month and sanity left at the end of adolescence.Marginless is the baby crying and the phone ringing at the same time; margin is grandma taking the baby for the afternoon.Marginless is being asked to carry a load five pounds heavier than you can lift (I’ve been guilty of that); margin is a friend to carry half the burden.Marginless is not having time to finish the book you’re reading on stress; margin is having the time to read it twice.”Does this sound familiar to you? I know it does to me. I definitely made some adjustments on margin in my life following cancer, but it has taken me a while to learn the secret to creating margin in our lives, especially in retirement. Margin will help you erect boundaries to protect your time and sanity at a time when you may desperately need both!Dr. Swenson describes a simple, but very difficult to enact “secret” to help make this happen… “Just say no.” That has been very difficult for me, but I’m working on it. By saying no to anything that is not absolutely necessary to the well-being of your soul or the welfare of others, we can go about our days with a rhythm and pace in which we can feel happy and at peace.
To me, this is the “silver lining” in this whole pandemic exercise we are currently going through. We are literally being forced to create some much needed “MARGIN” in our lives. (and I’m not referring to ‘physical distancing’ here…) We all most likely can acknowledge that at some time we have burned the candle at both ends… We all need MARGIN. Simply put, MARGIN = what may be missing in our lives, and the COVID -19 challenge is providing us that opportunity. As Dr. Swenson points out, when we lack margin, it is most often of our own doing. After all, God never called anyone to be marginless…
“As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”Luke 10:38-42
By reevaluating our priorities and determining the value of rest and simplicity in our lives, we can see where each of our individual identity’s really comes from. The benefits can be good health, financial stability, fulfilling relationships, and availability for God’s purpose. This can become our new reality as we work through this current challenge together.
God’s richest blessings and good health your way!!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am. . . for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:
www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
“We all most likely can acknowledge that at some time we have burned the candle at both ends… We all need MARGIN in our lives (and I’m not referring to ‘physical distancing’ here …) Simply put, MARGIN = what may be missing in our lives, and the COVID -19 challenge is providing us that opportunity.”
Greetings from Cedar Falls,
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues, bringing with it all the frustrations that force changes in our daily lives, I firmly believe we will get through this together with thoughtful, consistent, science-based and open communication and decision-making. Right now, we are on defense concerning the virus and hunkering down through social distancing, washing hands constantly and avoiding touching one’s face. This is the way for the time being. It has been frustrating for many. I know I feel it not being able to see my mom “in person” on a regular basis, but we know it is for the good of not only her, but others as well. There will always be some uncertainty about the underlying science as this is a new experience for all of us, and by applying a precautionary approach where uncertainty exists, and implementing well-reasoned decisions about how best to limit the dissemination of COVID-19, things will improve. It is unfortunate we are not as prepared as we could have been, given the many years we've been planning for pandemic influenza. But rather than criticizing past decisions, I am hopeful we can move forward together in a way that ensures our healthcare and other high-priority workforces have the highest degree of protection possible. And perhaps we'll make better decisions going forward, once this pandemic is over.As you may know, I always try to find positives in challenges that come our way, and this is certainly one of them! The social distancing and isolation practices being employed have provided me more time to read and reflect on the thoughts and experiences of others. Tricia and I are currently reading a book for our Small Group Bible Study titled The Good and Beautiful God by James Bryan Smith. Wonderful book, and as is often the case, this read had led me to another author who has given me some valuable perspectives that help me understand and get through this current pandemic challenge. Smith does an excellent job of helping us discover the narratives that Jesus lived by vs. the often-false narratives we have come to develop about God in our daily lives. He also provides some spiritual exercises he refers to as Soul Training that help us develop and grow in the knowledge of our good and beautiful God. This week’s Soul Training exercise involves the concept of “Margin”.Given that backdrop, Smith introduces us in the Soul Training exercise to Dr. Richard Swenson who has written a book by the title Margin. Imagine that… As we all are aware from our English classes, margin refers to the space on the edge of a paper where there is no text. Swenson points out that the pages we read in a book have margins on the top, bottom and sides. If words stretched from top to bottom and to both edges, there would be no margin. Swenson points out that our lives are often like that… I know personally I can relate to that. So often, I have added so much to my schedule that I have little “margin” for leisure and rest and family and health and God. I think that may describe many of our situations “pre” COVID-19.Dr. Swenson describes margin and being marginless this way:“The conditions of modern-day living devour margin… Marginless is being 30 minutes late to the doctor’s office because you were 20 minutes late out of the hairdresser’s because you were ten minutes late dropping the children off at school because the car ran out of gas two blocks from the gas station - and you forgot your purse.
Margin on the other hand is having breath left at the top of the staircase, money left at the end of the month and sanity left at the end of adolescence.Marginless is the baby crying and the phone ringing at the same time; margin is grandma taking the baby for the afternoon.Marginless is being asked to carry a load five pounds heavier than you can lift (I’ve been guilty of that); margin is a friend to carry half the burden.Marginless is not having time to finish the book you’re reading on stress; margin is having the time to read it twice.”Does this sound familiar to you? I know it does to me. I definitely made some adjustments on margin in my life following cancer, but it has taken me a while to learn the secret to creating margin in our lives, especially in retirement. Margin will help you erect boundaries to protect your time and sanity at a time when you may desperately need both!Dr. Swenson describes a simple, but very difficult to enact “secret” to help make this happen… “Just say no.” That has been very difficult for me, but I’m working on it. By saying no to anything that is not absolutely necessary to the well-being of your soul or the welfare of others, we can go about our days with a rhythm and pace in which we can feel happy and at peace.
To me, this is the “silver lining” in this whole pandemic exercise we are currently going through. We are literally being forced to create some much needed “MARGIN” in our lives. (and I’m not referring to ‘physical distancing’ here…) We all most likely can acknowledge that at some time we have burned the candle at both ends… We all need MARGIN. Simply put, MARGIN = what may be missing in our lives, and the COVID -19 challenge is providing us that opportunity. As Dr. Swenson points out, when we lack margin, it is most often of our own doing. After all, God never called anyone to be marginless…
“As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”Luke 10:38-42
By reevaluating our priorities and determining the value of rest and simplicity in our lives, we can see where each of our individual identity’s really comes from. The benefits can be good health, financial stability, fulfilling relationships, and availability for God’s purpose. This can become our new reality as we work through this current challenge together.
God’s richest blessings and good health your way!!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am. . . for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated! Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:
www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
April 1, 2020
Reflections from the Home Team - March 31, 2020“May There...
Reflections from the Home Team - March 31, 2020
“May There Always be an Angel by Your Side…” Greetings from Cedar Falls!
Many of us have begun using much of our energy wondering about what lies on the road ahead given the recent pandemic concerns. When faced with difficult situations and choices, my mind often tends to click into overdrive. I have to admit, my experiences with cancer treatments and their side effects has often taken over my thinking, and it was very easy to indulge them. Perseverance became a daily part of my existence. I also realized that if I indulged myself in worries, pain, and anxieties, they could quickly turn into idols. That is when I needed to remind myself to have confidence in God, trusting He will not forsake me in my time of need. I began to break free from them by trusting and refreshing myself in God’s word and letting Him into my heart. God doesn't expect perfection, it’s our effort that pleases Him. I have been making the effort by beginning each day connecting with Him through silent prayer and reading scripture. I need that boost given all that is going on in our community, nation and around the world. I am convinced my Guardian Angel, whom I affectionately refer to as Angelina, is awakening my heart yet again to the fact that God is in control and can be trusted to never leave us or forsake us.
I learned a while back to lean on my precious Home Team (both human and Divine) when indulging in the worries, pain and anxieties that come my way. With their help, I always seem to feel more alive, more awake, and more ready to take on the challenges that our life journeys can present, things like the Corona Virus we are presently battling. As you are well aware, my life journey since being diagnosed with cancer has certainly given me an opportunity to do a lot of reflecting. Reading has given me new perspectives on many things. A good friend sent me a quote a number of years ago from Irish poet and philosopher John O’Donohue that has remained embedded in my heart…
May the angels in their beauty bless you,May an angel of awakening stir your heart,May an angel of healing turn your wounds into sources of refreshment,May an angel of compassion open your eyes to the unseen suffering around you,And may the angel of death arrive only when your life is complete,And you have brought every gift to the threshold where its infinity can shine.
I sincerely believe I have met several of those angels in my life so far. Without question, I have developed even more compassion for those not only suffering from cancer, but also those who may be struggling with what the future may hold at present. I want to reach out to share a message of hope and strength for those who may be facing similar battles. I especially wanted to share how important all of these connections have been in my journey as they have provided the strength and courage I needed to fight the fight, no matter what that battle may be. That is a very important part of the message of hope I want to communicate. Reaching out to others in my time of need wasn’t always easy, but it certainly was necessary! As for that last angel, I’m not quite ready to meet him/her yet as I think I still have some gifts to share with others before my life becomes complete within God’s plan for me.
As always seems to be the case in my life when things get a bit tough, I experience something that brings me back in focus. When I was first diagnosed with cancer, a good friend delivered to me a leaded glass angel that I have sitting next to me in my home office window. That art piece (pictured above) reminds me daily of my Guardian Angel, whom I have affectionately named Angelina. I think she was awakening my heart yet again helping me to realize my Home Team was there to help me through this whole pandemic situation. As I was sitting in my office this morning and thinking about being isolated and doing my part for social distancing on a dreary, rainy spring day, all of a sudden, the sunshine burst through and illuminated my leaded glass Angel. I have always believed I have a Guardian Angel, and honestly, she has been quite busy in my life covering my back, especially over the last number of years! It was just then that I ran across a post titled “A Conversation with God” that was recently shared by another good friend which simply read:
A Conversation with God
Me: Okay, God, here's the thing. I'm scared. I'm trying not to be, but I am.
God: I know. Want to talk about it?
Me: Do we need to? I mean, you already know.
God: Let's talk about it anyway... We've done this before.
Me: I know, I just feel like I should be bigger or stronger or something by now.
God: *waiting patiently, unhurried, undistracted, never annoyed.
Me: Okay. So, I'm afraid I'll do everything I can to protect my family and it won't be enough. I'm afraid of someone I love, dying. I'm afraid the world won't go back to what it was before. I'm afraid my life is always going to feel a little bit unsettled.
God: Anything else?
Me: EVERYTHING ELSE.
God: Remember how your kids woke up the other night and came running down the hall to your bedroom?
Me: Yes.
God: You were still awake, so when you heard them running, you started calling out to them before they even got to you... remember? Do you remember what you called out to them?
Me: I said, "You're okay! You're okay! You're okay!"
God: Why did you call to them? Why didn't you just wait for them to get to your room?
Me: Because I wanted them to know that I was awake, and I heard them, and they didn't have to be afraid all the way to the end, of the dark hallway.
God: Exactly. I hear you, daughter. I hear your thoughts racing like feet down the dark hallway. There's another side to all of this. I'm there already. I've seen the end of it. And I want you to know right here as you walk through it all, you're okay. I haven't gone to sleep, and I won't.
Me: *Crying. Can we sit together awhile? Can we just sit here a minute before I go back to facing it all?
God: There's nothing I'd love more!
That post couldn’t have come at a better time for me! If there is one message, I want to get to people, it is that when faced with a difficult situation like cancer, Corona Virus, or for that matter, any tough situation, it is so important to reach out to others, especially God, to have that conversation remembering as we all walk through it together, we are OK. Just a reminder… “For He will give His Angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:11 We are under the constant care of God’s Angels as He gives each of His Angels a purpose with instructions to watch over us as His children. The Lord and His angels are always there, but so are friends and family. Be sure to access them, even if through a simple phone conversation! We are built to live in community even though that may mean fewer in person hugs and greetings for the time being.
I have also listed below a link to one of my favorite artists, Tommy Emmanuel, who plays my favorite song titled, “Angelina.” I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
Link to: Tommy Emmanuel and "Angelina"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhR04kmcSXU
Be safe and be well!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am. . . for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:
www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
“May There Always be an Angel by Your Side…” Greetings from Cedar Falls!
Many of us have begun using much of our energy wondering about what lies on the road ahead given the recent pandemic concerns. When faced with difficult situations and choices, my mind often tends to click into overdrive. I have to admit, my experiences with cancer treatments and their side effects has often taken over my thinking, and it was very easy to indulge them. Perseverance became a daily part of my existence. I also realized that if I indulged myself in worries, pain, and anxieties, they could quickly turn into idols. That is when I needed to remind myself to have confidence in God, trusting He will not forsake me in my time of need. I began to break free from them by trusting and refreshing myself in God’s word and letting Him into my heart. God doesn't expect perfection, it’s our effort that pleases Him. I have been making the effort by beginning each day connecting with Him through silent prayer and reading scripture. I need that boost given all that is going on in our community, nation and around the world. I am convinced my Guardian Angel, whom I affectionately refer to as Angelina, is awakening my heart yet again to the fact that God is in control and can be trusted to never leave us or forsake us.
I learned a while back to lean on my precious Home Team (both human and Divine) when indulging in the worries, pain and anxieties that come my way. With their help, I always seem to feel more alive, more awake, and more ready to take on the challenges that our life journeys can present, things like the Corona Virus we are presently battling. As you are well aware, my life journey since being diagnosed with cancer has certainly given me an opportunity to do a lot of reflecting. Reading has given me new perspectives on many things. A good friend sent me a quote a number of years ago from Irish poet and philosopher John O’Donohue that has remained embedded in my heart…
May the angels in their beauty bless you,May an angel of awakening stir your heart,May an angel of healing turn your wounds into sources of refreshment,May an angel of compassion open your eyes to the unseen suffering around you,And may the angel of death arrive only when your life is complete,And you have brought every gift to the threshold where its infinity can shine.
I sincerely believe I have met several of those angels in my life so far. Without question, I have developed even more compassion for those not only suffering from cancer, but also those who may be struggling with what the future may hold at present. I want to reach out to share a message of hope and strength for those who may be facing similar battles. I especially wanted to share how important all of these connections have been in my journey as they have provided the strength and courage I needed to fight the fight, no matter what that battle may be. That is a very important part of the message of hope I want to communicate. Reaching out to others in my time of need wasn’t always easy, but it certainly was necessary! As for that last angel, I’m not quite ready to meet him/her yet as I think I still have some gifts to share with others before my life becomes complete within God’s plan for me.
As always seems to be the case in my life when things get a bit tough, I experience something that brings me back in focus. When I was first diagnosed with cancer, a good friend delivered to me a leaded glass angel that I have sitting next to me in my home office window. That art piece (pictured above) reminds me daily of my Guardian Angel, whom I have affectionately named Angelina. I think she was awakening my heart yet again helping me to realize my Home Team was there to help me through this whole pandemic situation. As I was sitting in my office this morning and thinking about being isolated and doing my part for social distancing on a dreary, rainy spring day, all of a sudden, the sunshine burst through and illuminated my leaded glass Angel. I have always believed I have a Guardian Angel, and honestly, she has been quite busy in my life covering my back, especially over the last number of years! It was just then that I ran across a post titled “A Conversation with God” that was recently shared by another good friend which simply read:
A Conversation with God
Me: Okay, God, here's the thing. I'm scared. I'm trying not to be, but I am.
God: I know. Want to talk about it?
Me: Do we need to? I mean, you already know.
God: Let's talk about it anyway... We've done this before.
Me: I know, I just feel like I should be bigger or stronger or something by now.
God: *waiting patiently, unhurried, undistracted, never annoyed.
Me: Okay. So, I'm afraid I'll do everything I can to protect my family and it won't be enough. I'm afraid of someone I love, dying. I'm afraid the world won't go back to what it was before. I'm afraid my life is always going to feel a little bit unsettled.
God: Anything else?
Me: EVERYTHING ELSE.
God: Remember how your kids woke up the other night and came running down the hall to your bedroom?
Me: Yes.
God: You were still awake, so when you heard them running, you started calling out to them before they even got to you... remember? Do you remember what you called out to them?
Me: I said, "You're okay! You're okay! You're okay!"
God: Why did you call to them? Why didn't you just wait for them to get to your room?
Me: Because I wanted them to know that I was awake, and I heard them, and they didn't have to be afraid all the way to the end, of the dark hallway.
God: Exactly. I hear you, daughter. I hear your thoughts racing like feet down the dark hallway. There's another side to all of this. I'm there already. I've seen the end of it. And I want you to know right here as you walk through it all, you're okay. I haven't gone to sleep, and I won't.
Me: *Crying. Can we sit together awhile? Can we just sit here a minute before I go back to facing it all?
God: There's nothing I'd love more!
That post couldn’t have come at a better time for me! If there is one message, I want to get to people, it is that when faced with a difficult situation like cancer, Corona Virus, or for that matter, any tough situation, it is so important to reach out to others, especially God, to have that conversation remembering as we all walk through it together, we are OK. Just a reminder… “For He will give His Angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:11 We are under the constant care of God’s Angels as He gives each of His Angels a purpose with instructions to watch over us as His children. The Lord and His angels are always there, but so are friends and family. Be sure to access them, even if through a simple phone conversation! We are built to live in community even though that may mean fewer in person hugs and greetings for the time being.
I have also listed below a link to one of my favorite artists, Tommy Emmanuel, who plays my favorite song titled, “Angelina.” I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
Link to: Tommy Emmanuel and "Angelina"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhR04kmcSXU
Be safe and be well!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am. . . for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:
www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
Reflections from the Home Team - April 1, 2020“May There ...
Reflections from the Home Team - April 1, 2020
“May There Always be an Angel by Your Side…” Greetings from Cedar Falls!
Many of us have begun using much of our energy wondering about what lies on the road ahead given the recent pandemic concerns. When faced with difficult situations and choices, my mind often tends to click into overdrive. I have to admit, my experiences with cancer treatments and their side effects has often taken over my thinking, and it was very easy to indulge them. Perseverance became a daily part of my existence. I also realized that if I indulged myself in worries, pain, and anxieties, they could quickly turn into idols. That is when I needed to remind myself to have confidence in God, trusting He will not forsake me in my time of need. I began to break free from them by trusting and refreshing myself in God’s word and letting Him into my heart. God doesn't expect perfection, it’s our effort that pleases Him. I have been making the effort by beginning each day connecting with Him through silent prayer and reading scripture. I need that boost given all that is going on in our community, nation and around the world. I am convinced my Guardian Angel, whom I affectionately refer to as Angelina, is awakening my heart yet again to the fact that God is in control and can be trusted to never leave us or forsake us.
I learned a while back to lean on my precious Home Team (both human and Divine) when indulging in the worries, pain and anxieties that come my way. With their help, I always seem to feel more alive, more awake, and more ready to take on the challenges that our life journeys can present, things like the Corona Virus we are presently battling. As you are well aware, my life journey since being diagnosed with cancer has certainly given me an opportunity to do a lot of reflecting. Reading has given me new perspectives on many things. A good friend sent me a quote a number of years ago from Irish poet and philosopher John O’Donohue that has remained embedded in my heart…
May the angels in their beauty bless you,May an angel of awakening stir your heart,May an angel of healing turn your wounds into sources of refreshment,May an angel of compassion open your eyes to the unseen suffering around you,And may the angel of death arrive only when your life is complete,And you have brought every gift to the threshold where its infinity can shine.
I sincerely believe I have met several of those angels in my life so far. Without question, I have developed even more compassion for those not only suffering from cancer, but also those who may be struggling with what the future may hold at present. I want to reach out to share a message of hope and strength for those who may be facing similar battles. I especially wanted to share how important all of these connections have been in my journey as they have provided the strength and courage I needed to fight the fight, no matter what that battle may be. That is a very important part of the message of hope I want to communicate. Reaching out to others in my time of need wasn’t always easy, but it certainly was necessary! As for that last angel, I’m not quite ready to meet him/her yet as I think I still have some gifts to share with others before my life becomes complete within God’s plan for me.
As always seems to be the case in my life when things get a bit tough, I experience something that brings me back in focus. When I was first diagnosed with cancer, a good friend delivered to me a leaded glass angel that I have sitting next to me in my home office window. That art piece (pictured above) reminds me daily of my Guardian Angel, whom I have affectionately named Angelina. I think she was awakening my heart yet again helping me to realize my Home Team was there to help me through this whole pandemic situation. As I was sitting in my office this morning and thinking about being isolated and doing my part for social distancing on a dreary, rainy spring day, all of a sudden, the sunshine burst through and illuminated my leaded glass Angel. I have always believed I have a Guardian Angel, and honestly, she has been quite busy in my life covering my back, especially over the last number of years! It was just then that I ran across a post titled “A Conversation with God” that was recently shared by another good friend which simply read:
A Conversation with God
Me: Okay, God, here's the thing. I'm scared. I'm trying not to be, but I am.
God: I know. Want to talk about it?
Me: Do we need to? I mean, you already know.
God: Let's talk about it anyway... We've done this before.
Me: I know, I just feel like I should be bigger or stronger or something by now.
God: *waiting patiently, unhurried, undistracted, never annoyed.
Me: Okay. So, I'm afraid I'll do everything I can to protect my family and it won't be enough. I'm afraid of someone I love, dying. I'm afraid the world won't go back to what it was before. I'm afraid my life is always going to feel a little bit unsettled.
God: Anything else?
Me: EVERYTHING ELSE.
God: Remember how your kids woke up the other night and came running down the hall to your bedroom?
Me: Yes.
God: You were still awake, so when you heard them running, you started calling out to them before they even got to you... remember? Do you remember what you called out to them?
Me: I said, "You're okay! You're okay! You're okay!"
God: Why did you call to them? Why didn't you just wait for them to get to your room?
Me: Because I wanted them to know that I was awake, and I heard them, and they didn't have to be afraid all the way to the end, of the dark hallway.
God: Exactly. I hear you, daughter. I hear your thoughts racing like feet down the dark hallway. There's another side to all of this. I'm there already. I've seen the end of it. And I want you to know right here as you walk through it all, you're okay. I haven't gone to sleep, and I won't.
Me: *Crying. Can we sit together awhile? Can we just sit here a minute before I go back to facing it all?
God: There's nothing I'd love more!
That post couldn’t have come at a better time for me! If there is one message, I want to get to people, it is that when faced with a difficult situation like cancer, Corona Virus, or for that matter, any tough situation, it is so important to reach out to others, especially God, to have that conversation remembering as we all walk through it together, we are OK. Just a reminder… “For He will give His Angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:11 We are under the constant care of God’s Angels as He gives each of His Angels a purpose with instructions to watch over us as His children. The Lord and His angels are always there, but so are friends and family. Be sure to access them, even if through a simple phone conversation! We are built to live in community even though that may mean fewer in person hugs and greetings for the time being.
I have also listed below a link to one of my favorite artists, Tommy Emmanuel, who plays my favorite song titled, “Angelina.” I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
Link to: Tommy Emmanuel and "Angelina"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhR04kmcSXU
Be safe and be well!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am. . . for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:
www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
“May There Always be an Angel by Your Side…” Greetings from Cedar Falls!
Many of us have begun using much of our energy wondering about what lies on the road ahead given the recent pandemic concerns. When faced with difficult situations and choices, my mind often tends to click into overdrive. I have to admit, my experiences with cancer treatments and their side effects has often taken over my thinking, and it was very easy to indulge them. Perseverance became a daily part of my existence. I also realized that if I indulged myself in worries, pain, and anxieties, they could quickly turn into idols. That is when I needed to remind myself to have confidence in God, trusting He will not forsake me in my time of need. I began to break free from them by trusting and refreshing myself in God’s word and letting Him into my heart. God doesn't expect perfection, it’s our effort that pleases Him. I have been making the effort by beginning each day connecting with Him through silent prayer and reading scripture. I need that boost given all that is going on in our community, nation and around the world. I am convinced my Guardian Angel, whom I affectionately refer to as Angelina, is awakening my heart yet again to the fact that God is in control and can be trusted to never leave us or forsake us.
I learned a while back to lean on my precious Home Team (both human and Divine) when indulging in the worries, pain and anxieties that come my way. With their help, I always seem to feel more alive, more awake, and more ready to take on the challenges that our life journeys can present, things like the Corona Virus we are presently battling. As you are well aware, my life journey since being diagnosed with cancer has certainly given me an opportunity to do a lot of reflecting. Reading has given me new perspectives on many things. A good friend sent me a quote a number of years ago from Irish poet and philosopher John O’Donohue that has remained embedded in my heart…
May the angels in their beauty bless you,May an angel of awakening stir your heart,May an angel of healing turn your wounds into sources of refreshment,May an angel of compassion open your eyes to the unseen suffering around you,And may the angel of death arrive only when your life is complete,And you have brought every gift to the threshold where its infinity can shine.
I sincerely believe I have met several of those angels in my life so far. Without question, I have developed even more compassion for those not only suffering from cancer, but also those who may be struggling with what the future may hold at present. I want to reach out to share a message of hope and strength for those who may be facing similar battles. I especially wanted to share how important all of these connections have been in my journey as they have provided the strength and courage I needed to fight the fight, no matter what that battle may be. That is a very important part of the message of hope I want to communicate. Reaching out to others in my time of need wasn’t always easy, but it certainly was necessary! As for that last angel, I’m not quite ready to meet him/her yet as I think I still have some gifts to share with others before my life becomes complete within God’s plan for me.
As always seems to be the case in my life when things get a bit tough, I experience something that brings me back in focus. When I was first diagnosed with cancer, a good friend delivered to me a leaded glass angel that I have sitting next to me in my home office window. That art piece (pictured above) reminds me daily of my Guardian Angel, whom I have affectionately named Angelina. I think she was awakening my heart yet again helping me to realize my Home Team was there to help me through this whole pandemic situation. As I was sitting in my office this morning and thinking about being isolated and doing my part for social distancing on a dreary, rainy spring day, all of a sudden, the sunshine burst through and illuminated my leaded glass Angel. I have always believed I have a Guardian Angel, and honestly, she has been quite busy in my life covering my back, especially over the last number of years! It was just then that I ran across a post titled “A Conversation with God” that was recently shared by another good friend which simply read:
A Conversation with God
Me: Okay, God, here's the thing. I'm scared. I'm trying not to be, but I am.
God: I know. Want to talk about it?
Me: Do we need to? I mean, you already know.
God: Let's talk about it anyway... We've done this before.
Me: I know, I just feel like I should be bigger or stronger or something by now.
God: *waiting patiently, unhurried, undistracted, never annoyed.
Me: Okay. So, I'm afraid I'll do everything I can to protect my family and it won't be enough. I'm afraid of someone I love, dying. I'm afraid the world won't go back to what it was before. I'm afraid my life is always going to feel a little bit unsettled.
God: Anything else?
Me: EVERYTHING ELSE.
God: Remember how your kids woke up the other night and came running down the hall to your bedroom?
Me: Yes.
God: You were still awake, so when you heard them running, you started calling out to them before they even got to you... remember? Do you remember what you called out to them?
Me: I said, "You're okay! You're okay! You're okay!"
God: Why did you call to them? Why didn't you just wait for them to get to your room?
Me: Because I wanted them to know that I was awake, and I heard them, and they didn't have to be afraid all the way to the end, of the dark hallway.
God: Exactly. I hear you, daughter. I hear your thoughts racing like feet down the dark hallway. There's another side to all of this. I'm there already. I've seen the end of it. And I want you to know right here as you walk through it all, you're okay. I haven't gone to sleep, and I won't.
Me: *Crying. Can we sit together awhile? Can we just sit here a minute before I go back to facing it all?
God: There's nothing I'd love more!
That post couldn’t have come at a better time for me! If there is one message, I want to get to people, it is that when faced with a difficult situation like cancer, Corona Virus, or for that matter, any tough situation, it is so important to reach out to others, especially God, to have that conversation remembering as we all walk through it together, we are OK. Just a reminder… “For He will give His Angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:11 We are under the constant care of God’s Angels as He gives each of His Angels a purpose with instructions to watch over us as His children. The Lord and His angels are always there, but so are friends and family. Be sure to access them, even if through a simple phone conversation! We are built to live in community even though that may mean fewer in person hugs and greetings for the time being.
I have also listed below a link to one of my favorite artists, Tommy Emmanuel, who plays my favorite song titled, “Angelina.” I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
Link to: Tommy Emmanuel and "Angelina"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhR04kmcSXU
Be safe and be well!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am. . . for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:
www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
March 29, 2020
Reflections from the Home Team - March 29, 2020“We all kn...
Reflections from the Home Team - March 29, 2020
“We all know a physical virus can be dangerous, but so can an ‘idea virus’. Let's respond to the fear, negative thoughts, panic and uncertainty with positive, contagious energy.” Jon Gordon
Greetings from Cedar Falls!Every day seems to bring more news about COVID-19 and every hour seems to deliver more unwelcome changes and decisions made to slow the transmission rates of the virus. As baseball spring camps have been closed down, the NBA having suspended its season, the NCAA cancelling its men's and women's basketball tournaments and wrestling tournament, and the NHL’s regular season being paused, the impact is being felt across all sports. Things certainly feel emptier now and that can be very unsettling.As the virus was in its beginning stages here in this country, many MLB clubs advised their players to avoid signing autographs, shaking hands or having any other kind of personal interactions with fans. To most players, that was a foreign concept, especially at this time of the year! Baseball enthusiasts often say that the best thing about the game is that every single day you have a chance to see something you've never seen before, and quite honestly, nobody has ever seen anything like this. In this atmosphere, both in baseball and, clearly, beyond, we are all rethinking even the most natural and mundane movements and it's difficult and uncomfortable for all. As I’ve often shared, baseball has offered me many valuable lessons when I’ve been confronted with some of the curveballs that have been “pitched” my way. Just as the game of baseball and other sports have implemented precautions that are keeping the players and everyone else safe, I think we all can acknowledge the situation is certainly not ideal. I’m confident we will work through it and the good news is that everyone appears to be cooperating in these first, awkward weeks as we all await the time when things will get back to normal, hopefully sooner than later. That’s a TEAM effort, and a lesson we can all benefit from.Clearly, the stakes for humanity right now are far greater than determinations of whether games are played in empty stadiums or whether the games are even played at all… As this all plays out in directions few of us could have ever imagined as recently as a few weeks ago, we can only hope lives are protected, infections are contained, and normalcy returns for all soon. In schools, churches at offices and, yes, even in arenas, gyms and stadiums.
The Coronavirus has disrupted everyone’s life in some form or another. Even during the best moments, there is an underlying stress which tends to chip away at our sanity, especially as we socially distance and isolate ourselves to help mitigate the spread of this virus. I had a good friend email me the following today: “I've always been a fan of social distancing anyway, but I am about ready to kidnap my grandkids! From a spiritual point of view, I've been thinking that maybe this will help everyone slow down and realize what is really important as we draw closer to HIM...” That is the good that can come out of all this, but it’s certainly not easy getting there!
Unfortunately, we have witnessed panic, fear, anxiety and negative thoughts consume many folks over the past few weeks. Jon Gordon has an interesting perspective on all this, and I’ve shared below his recent post on “How to overcome negative thoughts and fear”. Couldn’t have come at a better time!
HOW TO OVERCOME NEGATIVE THOUGHTS AND FEARAre you struggling with Fear?
If you are like most people, including me, I'm sure the answer is yes.
Do your negative thoughts come from you?
If you say yes, I have another question for you.
Who would ever choose to have a negative thought?
I know I certainly wouldn't.
The truth is negative thoughts don't come from you. They come from consciousness. Think of the brain as the hardware. Consciousness is the software. No one has ever found a thought inside a brain. Thought simply activates the brain. Thoughts exist in something like an internet cloud and they are always being downloaded to your brain. It's the same with dreams and nightmares. You don't choose them.
Negative thoughts pop in at random times or, for some, more frequently. They are like an unwanted surprise guest that shows up at your front door to tell you that your future is hopeless and that this is the end of the world. They tell you that you don't have what it takes to make it through this challenging time. They try to convince you that your best days are behind you.
But here's the deal. Like any unwanted surprise guest, you decide whether or not to entertain them. A thought's power only comes from the power you give it. You don't have to give your negative thoughts power. You can ignore them. You can see them for what they truly are: lies, lies, lies.
Always remember that just because you have a negative thought doesn't mean you have to believe it.
Fear is a liar and if you struggle with fear and negative thoughts, it’s because you believe the lies that they tell. Fear stands for False Evidence Appearing Real. Fear looks and feels true, but it isn't.
I'm not saying the virus and pandemic we face isn't real. I'm saying we can't let the fear that comes from it become irrational and overtake our lives.
Fear says you aren't strong enough, good enough, successful enough, wealthy enough, happy enough, smart enough, talented enough. Well, I say enough with fear. Instead, know the truth. You have everything you need inside you to be successful. You weren't meant to be average. You have a desire to be great because you were created and born to go great things. You have a purpose. There's a plan for your life. You may be going through a hard time now, but you will get through this. It looks like the end of the world, but it isn't. This too shall pass.
I want you to know that I too have struggled with negative thoughts and fear this week as well. Every time I watch the news, I feel depressed for a few minutes before reviving my hope and belief again. Be careful of watching too much news during this time. It can overwhelm and discourage you. Ironically the more it does, we return to it like a drug seeking to feel better only to feel worse. Use the media for information but then shut it off for your mental health.
And when fear and negativity pop in your head you can ignore them or speak truth to the lies. That's what I do, and I was thrilled to hear that’s what the singer Jewel does as well. I was recently listening to an interview she did where said she makes a list of all the lies fear tells her. Then she writes down the truth next to the lies. She said it has given her a lot of power and freedom.
It can do the same for you. There is a tremendous amount of freedom in knowing that negative thoughts are not coming from you. There's a ton of power in knowing that you don't have to believe the lies. You can know, speak and live the truth and just keep moving forward with belief, optimism, faith and grit.
No matter what thoughts come your way, you have everything you need inside you to get through this difficult time. Thoughts will come and go but you just stay in the game one day at a time and keep moving forward. Don't look to the past. Don't look too far into the future. Do what you can do to make today great!
The truth is, this isn't going to be easy. The truth is, our leaders are going to have to make difficult decisions in the near future to save lives and save the economy. The truth is, we can't control the events in our life, but we can control how we respond. The truth is, we will get through this.
We all know a physical virus can be dangerous, but so can an idea virus. Let's respond to the fear, negative thoughts, panic and uncertainty with positive contagious energy.
Positive energy is contagious too. Share it!
- Jon
I have always found comfort in the Psalms when I find myself struggling with those nasty ‘idea viruses’. The Psalms have provided me with peace when I place my focus on the One who gives it to each of us. If you haven’t already, now is a good time to start slowly and purposely meditating on God’s word. It is a soul-stilling activity. Take some time and read a Psalm thinking about what it is saying about who God is, and what His power is in the “idea virus” situations we all face in our daily lives. “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” Psalms 94:19
The Psalms are not the only source of peace and strength in God’s word. Seek out stories of God’s provision in the Bible. The God who met those needs is the same God who meets our needs. The fact that we are anxious and stressed does not come as a surprise to God. Take this time to lay every concern before Him. Begin by thanking God for every good thing in your life, whether it be that you have toilet paper and hand soap, or that the sun is shining. Focus upward and outward with the positive energy Jon refers to above.
While we are at it, let’s also pray for others: the leaders making tough decisions, essential workers who daily put their health at risk to meet the needs of our community, children and parents who have lost their routines, and for people with compromised health. The list is endless. Prayer is also a powerful way for maintaining our mental health and helping us all get through this.
We are in a unique period of time where all the “extra” stuff in life has been canceled. By responding to the fear, negative thoughts, panic and uncertainly with positivity and God’s word, we can be reminded of two very important things: God is still God, and this too shall pass.
Blessings to each of you!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am. . . for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:
www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
“We all know a physical virus can be dangerous, but so can an ‘idea virus’. Let's respond to the fear, negative thoughts, panic and uncertainty with positive, contagious energy.” Jon Gordon
Greetings from Cedar Falls!Every day seems to bring more news about COVID-19 and every hour seems to deliver more unwelcome changes and decisions made to slow the transmission rates of the virus. As baseball spring camps have been closed down, the NBA having suspended its season, the NCAA cancelling its men's and women's basketball tournaments and wrestling tournament, and the NHL’s regular season being paused, the impact is being felt across all sports. Things certainly feel emptier now and that can be very unsettling.As the virus was in its beginning stages here in this country, many MLB clubs advised their players to avoid signing autographs, shaking hands or having any other kind of personal interactions with fans. To most players, that was a foreign concept, especially at this time of the year! Baseball enthusiasts often say that the best thing about the game is that every single day you have a chance to see something you've never seen before, and quite honestly, nobody has ever seen anything like this. In this atmosphere, both in baseball and, clearly, beyond, we are all rethinking even the most natural and mundane movements and it's difficult and uncomfortable for all. As I’ve often shared, baseball has offered me many valuable lessons when I’ve been confronted with some of the curveballs that have been “pitched” my way. Just as the game of baseball and other sports have implemented precautions that are keeping the players and everyone else safe, I think we all can acknowledge the situation is certainly not ideal. I’m confident we will work through it and the good news is that everyone appears to be cooperating in these first, awkward weeks as we all await the time when things will get back to normal, hopefully sooner than later. That’s a TEAM effort, and a lesson we can all benefit from.Clearly, the stakes for humanity right now are far greater than determinations of whether games are played in empty stadiums or whether the games are even played at all… As this all plays out in directions few of us could have ever imagined as recently as a few weeks ago, we can only hope lives are protected, infections are contained, and normalcy returns for all soon. In schools, churches at offices and, yes, even in arenas, gyms and stadiums.
The Coronavirus has disrupted everyone’s life in some form or another. Even during the best moments, there is an underlying stress which tends to chip away at our sanity, especially as we socially distance and isolate ourselves to help mitigate the spread of this virus. I had a good friend email me the following today: “I've always been a fan of social distancing anyway, but I am about ready to kidnap my grandkids! From a spiritual point of view, I've been thinking that maybe this will help everyone slow down and realize what is really important as we draw closer to HIM...” That is the good that can come out of all this, but it’s certainly not easy getting there!
Unfortunately, we have witnessed panic, fear, anxiety and negative thoughts consume many folks over the past few weeks. Jon Gordon has an interesting perspective on all this, and I’ve shared below his recent post on “How to overcome negative thoughts and fear”. Couldn’t have come at a better time!
HOW TO OVERCOME NEGATIVE THOUGHTS AND FEARAre you struggling with Fear?
If you are like most people, including me, I'm sure the answer is yes.
Do your negative thoughts come from you?
If you say yes, I have another question for you.
Who would ever choose to have a negative thought?
I know I certainly wouldn't.
The truth is negative thoughts don't come from you. They come from consciousness. Think of the brain as the hardware. Consciousness is the software. No one has ever found a thought inside a brain. Thought simply activates the brain. Thoughts exist in something like an internet cloud and they are always being downloaded to your brain. It's the same with dreams and nightmares. You don't choose them.
Negative thoughts pop in at random times or, for some, more frequently. They are like an unwanted surprise guest that shows up at your front door to tell you that your future is hopeless and that this is the end of the world. They tell you that you don't have what it takes to make it through this challenging time. They try to convince you that your best days are behind you.
But here's the deal. Like any unwanted surprise guest, you decide whether or not to entertain them. A thought's power only comes from the power you give it. You don't have to give your negative thoughts power. You can ignore them. You can see them for what they truly are: lies, lies, lies.
Always remember that just because you have a negative thought doesn't mean you have to believe it.
Fear is a liar and if you struggle with fear and negative thoughts, it’s because you believe the lies that they tell. Fear stands for False Evidence Appearing Real. Fear looks and feels true, but it isn't.
I'm not saying the virus and pandemic we face isn't real. I'm saying we can't let the fear that comes from it become irrational and overtake our lives.
Fear says you aren't strong enough, good enough, successful enough, wealthy enough, happy enough, smart enough, talented enough. Well, I say enough with fear. Instead, know the truth. You have everything you need inside you to be successful. You weren't meant to be average. You have a desire to be great because you were created and born to go great things. You have a purpose. There's a plan for your life. You may be going through a hard time now, but you will get through this. It looks like the end of the world, but it isn't. This too shall pass.
I want you to know that I too have struggled with negative thoughts and fear this week as well. Every time I watch the news, I feel depressed for a few minutes before reviving my hope and belief again. Be careful of watching too much news during this time. It can overwhelm and discourage you. Ironically the more it does, we return to it like a drug seeking to feel better only to feel worse. Use the media for information but then shut it off for your mental health.
And when fear and negativity pop in your head you can ignore them or speak truth to the lies. That's what I do, and I was thrilled to hear that’s what the singer Jewel does as well. I was recently listening to an interview she did where said she makes a list of all the lies fear tells her. Then she writes down the truth next to the lies. She said it has given her a lot of power and freedom.
It can do the same for you. There is a tremendous amount of freedom in knowing that negative thoughts are not coming from you. There's a ton of power in knowing that you don't have to believe the lies. You can know, speak and live the truth and just keep moving forward with belief, optimism, faith and grit.
No matter what thoughts come your way, you have everything you need inside you to get through this difficult time. Thoughts will come and go but you just stay in the game one day at a time and keep moving forward. Don't look to the past. Don't look too far into the future. Do what you can do to make today great!
The truth is, this isn't going to be easy. The truth is, our leaders are going to have to make difficult decisions in the near future to save lives and save the economy. The truth is, we can't control the events in our life, but we can control how we respond. The truth is, we will get through this.
We all know a physical virus can be dangerous, but so can an idea virus. Let's respond to the fear, negative thoughts, panic and uncertainty with positive contagious energy.
Positive energy is contagious too. Share it!
- Jon
I have always found comfort in the Psalms when I find myself struggling with those nasty ‘idea viruses’. The Psalms have provided me with peace when I place my focus on the One who gives it to each of us. If you haven’t already, now is a good time to start slowly and purposely meditating on God’s word. It is a soul-stilling activity. Take some time and read a Psalm thinking about what it is saying about who God is, and what His power is in the “idea virus” situations we all face in our daily lives. “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” Psalms 94:19
The Psalms are not the only source of peace and strength in God’s word. Seek out stories of God’s provision in the Bible. The God who met those needs is the same God who meets our needs. The fact that we are anxious and stressed does not come as a surprise to God. Take this time to lay every concern before Him. Begin by thanking God for every good thing in your life, whether it be that you have toilet paper and hand soap, or that the sun is shining. Focus upward and outward with the positive energy Jon refers to above.
While we are at it, let’s also pray for others: the leaders making tough decisions, essential workers who daily put their health at risk to meet the needs of our community, children and parents who have lost their routines, and for people with compromised health. The list is endless. Prayer is also a powerful way for maintaining our mental health and helping us all get through this.
We are in a unique period of time where all the “extra” stuff in life has been canceled. By responding to the fear, negative thoughts, panic and uncertainly with positivity and God’s word, we can be reminded of two very important things: God is still God, and this too shall pass.
Blessings to each of you!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am. . . for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:
www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
March 14, 2020
Reflections from the Home Team – March 15, 2020"We are ta...
Reflections from the Home Team – March 15, 2020
"We are taking it one-day-at-a-time. There are things we can all do to get through this by following the advice of experts and taking care of ourselves and each other, no? Remember, despite all the current events, there is no crying in baseball," Tom HanksGreetings from Cedar Falls,
My inbox has recently been bombarded with notices containing lists of things to do RIGHT NOW, given the Corona Virus situation currently facing us all. There are reminders to wash our hands, socially distance ourselves and practice good hygiene habits. All good reminders which we probably should be practicing regardless of the current situation. Many events are being postponed or cancelled in an attempt to mitigate the spread of the virus… Baseball, basketball, wrestling, hockey, Church services, large group meetings and conferences all done in an attempt to help protect each of us from contracting the virus. Being a member of the high-risk age group and given my compromised immune system from cancer treatments, it’s wise that I follow those bits of advice given by health professionals as a precaution.
However, I also need to keep reminding myself that I want faith to be an important part of my daily life plan as well, but somedays, given the constant barrage by the media, there seems to be no room for it because everything else is pushing it out of the way. Often, it may seem impossible to spend time finding faith amidst the chaos.
Certainly, it’s not always easy. What I’ve found comforting is stealing moments, wherever I can find them, to reconnect with God in the “jumble” of life. I’ve been there before, and I’m guessing I will be there in the future as well.
There are times when we face tough challenges that can seem overwhelming. We wonder at times like that how we will get through it. Here’s how - One small step at a time! We pull ourselves out of bed and we focus our attention on whatever small step is in front of us. And we do that over and over again and time passes and one day we look up and realize that we got through whatever it was, and things look a whole lot better than they did before.
It will take time to get there, but each step we take is a win for us. Those small victories eventually compound. It’s an approach the Navy SEALs take in a grueling training regimen during which more than two-thirds of those who enter the program quit before it is over. While the training is physically demanding, SEALs will tell you that mental strength and tenacity is more important than physical ability in terms of making it through to graduation. The same is true in life. Today, don’t allow yourself to get overwhelmed by the big picture and what may be to come. Focus on the one step you need to take right now.
Many of you I’m sure know of Tom Hanks who starred in one of my favorite movies as Coach Jimmy Dugan in “A League of their Own”. You may also be aware that he and his wife Rita Wilson have recently been confirmed as having contracted the Corona Virus while working in Australia. He and his wife are taking this approach to dealing with their current situation commenting; "We are taking it one-day-at-a-time. There are things we can all do to get through this by following the advice of experts and taking care of ourselves and each other, no? Remember, despite all the current events, there is no crying in baseball." No complaining, no finger pointing, just taking things one step at a time until things get better.Just a reminder that real security is knowing that no matter what challenges come our way today, we have what it takes to meet them. In this world there is no way to avoid negative events happening to us. Our strength comes from knowing that we can choose our response. Being an optimist, I try to wake up each morning thinking anything could happen today -- good or bad -- and whatever happens, I can deal with it! No crying in baseball and no crying in life.For me, part of that response comes from the comfort I find in the Psalms, in particular, Psalm 46:10… “Be still and know that I am God.”
Being still reminds me that’s all that it takes… A moment in which to remember, to stop and take a deep breath, letting myself be aware that He is right there with me. Taking that thought with me helps me ease back into the day. By putting God first, spending some time talking to Him and learning about Him at the beginning of my day, everything else seem a whole lot more manageable and I feel more balanced, even if I just take five minutes to be still.
Peace infuses our surroundings when we slow down and feel God’s presence, but that doesn’t mean He is not also present in the often too-cluttered, hectic activities crowding our days. God is with us all the time. Just think how much more meaningful our days will be if we spend it noticing Him. I also find comfort in keeping up a running commentary with God, praying and thanking Him for the blessings I have been given and for the many people I’ve encountered on my life journey so far.
One of the elements that can also easily become part of our too-cluttered and hectic lives is the element of fear… Obviously, many people are feeling that concern given the constant reporting of numbers, statistics and models given the Corona outbreak. As always seems to be the case, Jon Gordon, an author I have relied heavily on to provide a positive and common-sense approach to life’s challenges addresses that in a recent post.
Jon writes:FEAR NOTThe media is reporting every case of the Coronavirus as it happens live. Fear not!Someone in your city or state tested positive. Fear not!Your friend has self-quarantined. Fear not! You're not sure what the future holds. Fear not!You're not sure what will happen to your business and economy. Fear not!You're waiting on the medical report. Fear not!You're getting ready for the big game. Fear not!You might lose your job. Fear not!You don't know what college you will go to. Fear not!Your parents are getting a divorce. Fear not!You don't think the interview went well. Fear not!They're putting a lot of pressure on you. Fear not!You may not hit your numbers. Fear not!There's a lot of chaos in the world. Fear not!
Fear not doesn't mean you take reckless action.Fear not doesn't mean you ignore the reality of the situation.Fear not doesn't mean you make stupid decisions. Fear not doesn't mean you don't care. Fear not doesn’t mean you don’t wash your hands and use sanitizer. Fear not doesn't mean you don't bump knuckles or kick feet instead of handshake.Fear not doesn't mean you don't feel fear.
Fear not means you let go and know you're not in control.Fear not means you don't let fear consume you.Fear not means you don't let fear guide you.Fear not means you don't let fear paralyze you.Fear not means you don't let fear sabotage your health. Fear not means you won't let fear steal your future.Fear not means your trust is greater than your fear.Fear not means you move forward with faith.Fear not means you have hope today.Fear not means you still dream about tomorrow.Fear not means you believe the best is yet to come!
Fear and worry weaken your immune system. One of the best things you can do for your health is have faith... and wash your hands a lot.
-Jon
Please be safe and take care of each other today!
In Christ’s love and comfort,
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:
www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
"We are taking it one-day-at-a-time. There are things we can all do to get through this by following the advice of experts and taking care of ourselves and each other, no? Remember, despite all the current events, there is no crying in baseball," Tom HanksGreetings from Cedar Falls,
My inbox has recently been bombarded with notices containing lists of things to do RIGHT NOW, given the Corona Virus situation currently facing us all. There are reminders to wash our hands, socially distance ourselves and practice good hygiene habits. All good reminders which we probably should be practicing regardless of the current situation. Many events are being postponed or cancelled in an attempt to mitigate the spread of the virus… Baseball, basketball, wrestling, hockey, Church services, large group meetings and conferences all done in an attempt to help protect each of us from contracting the virus. Being a member of the high-risk age group and given my compromised immune system from cancer treatments, it’s wise that I follow those bits of advice given by health professionals as a precaution.
However, I also need to keep reminding myself that I want faith to be an important part of my daily life plan as well, but somedays, given the constant barrage by the media, there seems to be no room for it because everything else is pushing it out of the way. Often, it may seem impossible to spend time finding faith amidst the chaos.
Certainly, it’s not always easy. What I’ve found comforting is stealing moments, wherever I can find them, to reconnect with God in the “jumble” of life. I’ve been there before, and I’m guessing I will be there in the future as well.
There are times when we face tough challenges that can seem overwhelming. We wonder at times like that how we will get through it. Here’s how - One small step at a time! We pull ourselves out of bed and we focus our attention on whatever small step is in front of us. And we do that over and over again and time passes and one day we look up and realize that we got through whatever it was, and things look a whole lot better than they did before.
It will take time to get there, but each step we take is a win for us. Those small victories eventually compound. It’s an approach the Navy SEALs take in a grueling training regimen during which more than two-thirds of those who enter the program quit before it is over. While the training is physically demanding, SEALs will tell you that mental strength and tenacity is more important than physical ability in terms of making it through to graduation. The same is true in life. Today, don’t allow yourself to get overwhelmed by the big picture and what may be to come. Focus on the one step you need to take right now.
Many of you I’m sure know of Tom Hanks who starred in one of my favorite movies as Coach Jimmy Dugan in “A League of their Own”. You may also be aware that he and his wife Rita Wilson have recently been confirmed as having contracted the Corona Virus while working in Australia. He and his wife are taking this approach to dealing with their current situation commenting; "We are taking it one-day-at-a-time. There are things we can all do to get through this by following the advice of experts and taking care of ourselves and each other, no? Remember, despite all the current events, there is no crying in baseball." No complaining, no finger pointing, just taking things one step at a time until things get better.Just a reminder that real security is knowing that no matter what challenges come our way today, we have what it takes to meet them. In this world there is no way to avoid negative events happening to us. Our strength comes from knowing that we can choose our response. Being an optimist, I try to wake up each morning thinking anything could happen today -- good or bad -- and whatever happens, I can deal with it! No crying in baseball and no crying in life.For me, part of that response comes from the comfort I find in the Psalms, in particular, Psalm 46:10… “Be still and know that I am God.”
Being still reminds me that’s all that it takes… A moment in which to remember, to stop and take a deep breath, letting myself be aware that He is right there with me. Taking that thought with me helps me ease back into the day. By putting God first, spending some time talking to Him and learning about Him at the beginning of my day, everything else seem a whole lot more manageable and I feel more balanced, even if I just take five minutes to be still.
Peace infuses our surroundings when we slow down and feel God’s presence, but that doesn’t mean He is not also present in the often too-cluttered, hectic activities crowding our days. God is with us all the time. Just think how much more meaningful our days will be if we spend it noticing Him. I also find comfort in keeping up a running commentary with God, praying and thanking Him for the blessings I have been given and for the many people I’ve encountered on my life journey so far.
One of the elements that can also easily become part of our too-cluttered and hectic lives is the element of fear… Obviously, many people are feeling that concern given the constant reporting of numbers, statistics and models given the Corona outbreak. As always seems to be the case, Jon Gordon, an author I have relied heavily on to provide a positive and common-sense approach to life’s challenges addresses that in a recent post.
Jon writes:FEAR NOTThe media is reporting every case of the Coronavirus as it happens live. Fear not!Someone in your city or state tested positive. Fear not!Your friend has self-quarantined. Fear not! You're not sure what the future holds. Fear not!You're not sure what will happen to your business and economy. Fear not!You're waiting on the medical report. Fear not!You're getting ready for the big game. Fear not!You might lose your job. Fear not!You don't know what college you will go to. Fear not!Your parents are getting a divorce. Fear not!You don't think the interview went well. Fear not!They're putting a lot of pressure on you. Fear not!You may not hit your numbers. Fear not!There's a lot of chaos in the world. Fear not!
Fear not doesn't mean you take reckless action.Fear not doesn't mean you ignore the reality of the situation.Fear not doesn't mean you make stupid decisions. Fear not doesn't mean you don't care. Fear not doesn’t mean you don’t wash your hands and use sanitizer. Fear not doesn't mean you don't bump knuckles or kick feet instead of handshake.Fear not doesn't mean you don't feel fear.
Fear not means you let go and know you're not in control.Fear not means you don't let fear consume you.Fear not means you don't let fear guide you.Fear not means you don't let fear paralyze you.Fear not means you don't let fear sabotage your health. Fear not means you won't let fear steal your future.Fear not means your trust is greater than your fear.Fear not means you move forward with faith.Fear not means you have hope today.Fear not means you still dream about tomorrow.Fear not means you believe the best is yet to come!
Fear and worry weaken your immune system. One of the best things you can do for your health is have faith... and wash your hands a lot.
-Jon
Please be safe and take care of each other today!
In Christ’s love and comfort,
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated! Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:
www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
February 28, 2020
Reflections from the Home Team – February 29, 2020Sharon’...
Reflections from the Home Team – February 29, 2020
Sharon’s wisdom and life experience were very powerful for me and her final thought has found a permanent place in my heart and mind... "God’s Word is more powerful than any of our circumstances”.
Greetings from Cedar Falls,
I have just returned from a wonderful week in Florida enjoying some time spent with friends, fishing and of course, Braves baseball. The time spent with friends this past week reminded me that we are creatures who live by our stories (even though they may be a bit embellished at times). I am currently reading a book titled The Good and Beautiful God by James Bryan Smith and it points out that from early on we are all told stories by our parents, which help us interpret how life is or how life ought to be.
While sitting at the airport in Ft. Myers waiting for my flight out earlier this week, I kept thinking about a conversation I had with Sharon, an 80 something three-time cancer survivor at the Braves game last Sunday. She is also a retired teacher, so we had some common experiences and “stories” to talk about. (She didn’t care much for her principal). That certainly made for some interesting conversation. Her story reminded me that we are truly shaped by our stories as they become embedded in our minds and are shared with others. As Smith points out in his book, “Human beings are community dwellers and just as the Holy Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) live in community, so also, we who are made in God’s image are meant to live and love in community.” Kind of reminds me of my “Home Team!”
When the cancer topic came up in our conversation, I asked Sharon how difficult it was for her to “win” the battle, not just once, but three times…
She shared feeling overwhelmed is a real thing, and she has encountered it many times in her 80+ years. It is not a vague idea or one that some people somewhere out there wrestle with. It’s right here, right now... and we all face the struggle of feeling overwhelmed in some way at some time. Sharon shared she often felt being overwhelmed in the early days of women’s athletics when she was a first baseman on her high school women’s softball team. She also shared she is a die-hard Detroit Tigers fan and that has had its frustrations in recent years... (Although she had a big smile at days end as the Tigers handled my Braves on Sunday).
Sharon told me she has grown in her faith over the years and that God’s Word has had much to say about those moments, seasons and years we walk through when it feels like we can’t take one more thing. She said she has found there is often peace waiting for you on the other side of your struggles if you just remember your purpose. Sharon shared her “go to” verse when feeling overwhelmed is 1 Corinthians 10:31.
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
She shared she definitely grew up in a different era...In today’s culture she said our lives can often be seen and shared more than ever before. With one photo we can portray our lives as perfect or give the illusion of the ultimate experience. It wasn’t that way necessarily in her day. On the other extreme we can air our dirty laundry and enter into conversations that steal joy and overwhelm our minds.
She said when we remember our ultimate purpose in life is to glorify God, we will set aside the desire to be seen and the comparisons to be known. We will stay quiet when God says to stay quiet and we will speak truth in love when God says to speak.
Sharon thought the best way to avoid the “overwhelming” feeling of being accepted or finding purpose in this life is simply by doing everything for God’s glory, not our own, a very simple formula I guess. She shared feeling overwhelmed isn’t anything new for her and it most likely isn’t going away anytime soon. It is a “tool of the enemy“ to get us distracted from the missions in our lives.
Sharon’s wisdom and life experience were very powerful for me and her final thought has found a permanent place in my heart and mind...”God’s Word is more powerful than any of our circumstances”.
Funny how life circumstances can bring folks together in community to grow and learn from one another. Sharon’s story reminded me once again how each of our stories can touch many areas and many levels of our lives. As we share our struggles and discoveries, be sure to take time to celebrate the ways in which we can enrich each other’s lives.
As Ella Fitzgerald once sang, “into each life some rain must fall.” And while we can’t control just how much it rains; we can make a decision – let ourselves get wet or break out the umbrella. The rain, of course, refers to the challenging times that we all face – medical diagnosis, job loss, even just navigating the teen years as a parent. And, while it may not seem like it at first, something positive can come from those experiences.
We have a choice in how we respond to difficult times. We can shut down emotionally and let ourselves become hardened by it, or we can grow from the experience. I continue to remind myself that in all Jesus’ stories, He describes a God who is altogether good and is always out for our good, even if we can’t understand why it may be “raining” in our lives at any particular time. As James Bryan Smith shares, “We should expect to go through heartache and pain, suffering and loss, because they are part of what it means to be human, and they can be useful in our development.”
As James 1:2-4 says, “My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing.”
Wishing each of you a joyful time of peace and community as you share your stories and life experiences for the benefit of others.
Blessings your way!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
Sharon’s wisdom and life experience were very powerful for me and her final thought has found a permanent place in my heart and mind... "God’s Word is more powerful than any of our circumstances”.
Greetings from Cedar Falls,
I have just returned from a wonderful week in Florida enjoying some time spent with friends, fishing and of course, Braves baseball. The time spent with friends this past week reminded me that we are creatures who live by our stories (even though they may be a bit embellished at times). I am currently reading a book titled The Good and Beautiful God by James Bryan Smith and it points out that from early on we are all told stories by our parents, which help us interpret how life is or how life ought to be.
While sitting at the airport in Ft. Myers waiting for my flight out earlier this week, I kept thinking about a conversation I had with Sharon, an 80 something three-time cancer survivor at the Braves game last Sunday. She is also a retired teacher, so we had some common experiences and “stories” to talk about. (She didn’t care much for her principal). That certainly made for some interesting conversation. Her story reminded me that we are truly shaped by our stories as they become embedded in our minds and are shared with others. As Smith points out in his book, “Human beings are community dwellers and just as the Holy Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) live in community, so also, we who are made in God’s image are meant to live and love in community.” Kind of reminds me of my “Home Team!”
When the cancer topic came up in our conversation, I asked Sharon how difficult it was for her to “win” the battle, not just once, but three times…
She shared feeling overwhelmed is a real thing, and she has encountered it many times in her 80+ years. It is not a vague idea or one that some people somewhere out there wrestle with. It’s right here, right now... and we all face the struggle of feeling overwhelmed in some way at some time. Sharon shared she often felt being overwhelmed in the early days of women’s athletics when she was a first baseman on her high school women’s softball team. She also shared she is a die-hard Detroit Tigers fan and that has had its frustrations in recent years... (Although she had a big smile at days end as the Tigers handled my Braves on Sunday).
Sharon told me she has grown in her faith over the years and that God’s Word has had much to say about those moments, seasons and years we walk through when it feels like we can’t take one more thing. She said she has found there is often peace waiting for you on the other side of your struggles if you just remember your purpose. Sharon shared her “go to” verse when feeling overwhelmed is 1 Corinthians 10:31.
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
She shared she definitely grew up in a different era...In today’s culture she said our lives can often be seen and shared more than ever before. With one photo we can portray our lives as perfect or give the illusion of the ultimate experience. It wasn’t that way necessarily in her day. On the other extreme we can air our dirty laundry and enter into conversations that steal joy and overwhelm our minds.
She said when we remember our ultimate purpose in life is to glorify God, we will set aside the desire to be seen and the comparisons to be known. We will stay quiet when God says to stay quiet and we will speak truth in love when God says to speak.
Sharon thought the best way to avoid the “overwhelming” feeling of being accepted or finding purpose in this life is simply by doing everything for God’s glory, not our own, a very simple formula I guess. She shared feeling overwhelmed isn’t anything new for her and it most likely isn’t going away anytime soon. It is a “tool of the enemy“ to get us distracted from the missions in our lives.
Sharon’s wisdom and life experience were very powerful for me and her final thought has found a permanent place in my heart and mind...”God’s Word is more powerful than any of our circumstances”.
Funny how life circumstances can bring folks together in community to grow and learn from one another. Sharon’s story reminded me once again how each of our stories can touch many areas and many levels of our lives. As we share our struggles and discoveries, be sure to take time to celebrate the ways in which we can enrich each other’s lives.
As Ella Fitzgerald once sang, “into each life some rain must fall.” And while we can’t control just how much it rains; we can make a decision – let ourselves get wet or break out the umbrella. The rain, of course, refers to the challenging times that we all face – medical diagnosis, job loss, even just navigating the teen years as a parent. And, while it may not seem like it at first, something positive can come from those experiences.
We have a choice in how we respond to difficult times. We can shut down emotionally and let ourselves become hardened by it, or we can grow from the experience. I continue to remind myself that in all Jesus’ stories, He describes a God who is altogether good and is always out for our good, even if we can’t understand why it may be “raining” in our lives at any particular time. As James Bryan Smith shares, “We should expect to go through heartache and pain, suffering and loss, because they are part of what it means to be human, and they can be useful in our development.”
As James 1:2-4 says, “My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing.”
Wishing each of you a joyful time of peace and community as you share your stories and life experiences for the benefit of others.
Blessings your way!
Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated! Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at:www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
February 9, 2020
Reflections from the Home Team - February 9, 2020 “M...
Reflections from the Home Team - February 9, 2020
“Make a conscious effort to surround yourself with positive, nourishing and uplifting people – people who believe in you, encourage you and applaud your victories.” Jack Canfield
Greetings from Cedar Falls,
This past week has been challenging… I’m sad to share that one of my former students, Will Reinart passed away at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital at the age of 19. Will had been battling leukemia since he was 9 years old. I will always remember Will as a caring and loving person who definitely had an ongoing streak of optimism and determination as he dealt with a number of recurrences throughout his ten-year cancer journey. Will’s journey reminded me of the importance of having our own personal “Home Team” to help offer encouragement, positive influence and support during the challenging times we all will face in our lives. Will definitely had a supportive Home Team which started with his parents, Scott and Susan, his brothers, Sam and Daniel and also included his many classmates, instructors and friends. Surrounding yourself with positive people throughout your life who will compliment you, push you when needed and encourage you will start to seep into your daily life and character. I know Will’s spirit of optimism and determination definitely impacted my life journey in a very inspiring way!As you all know, there will be many ups and downs throughout a cancer journey. A comfort for me has been some words that were shared when I was originally diagnosed and working through treatments. Those words were; "Often our prayers and faith don’t save us from something, but rather, they save us for something." That statement has provided me a focus over the years. I often reflect on that as I've battled the anxieties and difficulties that go with living through cancer. Having faith, family and friends, despite those uneasy and often painful times we face as cancer patients and survivors gives us the strength and stamina to continue on. Will’s journey, and its impact on others through his optimism and determination certainly has helped provide many others, including myself, an inspirational boost. My hope is that each of us, as we struggle with whatever those “afflictions” may be in our lives, be encouraged to take the opportunity to be open about those struggles and seek out faith and friends as a means of support to provide hope and comfort.One of my most vivid memories of Will at Holmes Jr. High that truly defines the “Home Team” concept, was when our students came through with an incredible support project for Will who had a relapse in eighth grade after he had just undergone a stem cell bone marrow transplant. The Holmes Art Department, along with four of Will’s classmates and a number of Holmes students showed their support for Will by taking orders for yellow paper hats in recognition that September was Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. They then sold yellow paper hats at the beginning and end of the school day to help raise funds to support Will and his family during his treatments. Students were given a yellow hat on Friday, September 27th during our Intervention/Enrichment period called “Tiger Time”. All the students and staff went to the gym and donned their hats to shoot a school wide video. The video was then shared with the Reinart family and the greater Holmes Junior High community via youtube as a gesture of our caring support for Will and his family. The money raised along with the video was a way to show our school’s support for the Reinart family. I have listed a link below to view the video to share the story of our students and staff coming together as part of Will’s “Home Team” to provide Will and his family the hope and comfort that only friends and family can provide during such a difficult time.
You Tube link: “A Rally for Will”: http://youtu.be/v5OELY6bo08
The Assembly made me once again realize how important our friends and loved ones are in helping summon the strength and courage to "fight the battle" against this disease. I feel so fortunate to have such a team in my “dugout” and I know Will’s family have all of us in their dugout to help provide love, encouragement and support during this difficult time in their lives. I am so proud of our students for rallying for Will and grateful for having them as a means of support to provide hope and comfort… We often hear people complaining about their suffering and that brings to mind a comment made by Joel Osteen which has stuck with me and seems appropriate after watching our students and staff at the assembly.
“Encouragement is a wonderful thing, and people do not receive enough during difficult times. You need to be around people who are encouraging.” I have to say, we couldn't be in a better place to have that happen than in our school system and in this community we call home!
This week also brought to mind a couple of verses that I have struggled with regarding the concept of the spiritual disciplines of celebration and gratitude given this past week’s happenings…
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”Philippians 4:4
“Weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:15
As I stood in line at Will’s visitation, I couldn’t help but think back to when the initial results of my cancer biopsy in Iowa City were shared with me on my 55thbirthday… I have to be honest… on that day, I literally flunked the Spiritual Discipline of Celebration and Gratitude test. I had been racing from one completed job to another as a Principal prior to that day without stopping to enjoy any of the accomplishments and celebrations along the way. Yet every time I completed one of those jobs and moved on to another, I felt God’s gentle invitation to grow in this discipline. My soul was hungering for the joy, the delight, the opportunity to dance with God in celebration.
The discussion of the spiritual discipline of “celebration” can be quite confrontational and deep. Typically, we celebrate what we intrinsically value. If we look at our discipline(s) in life and/or lack thereof… it might actually point to an unsettling reality that we do not value with our actions what we often profess to value with our words. For me it begs the question of how often do I celebrate my comforts, preferences, or freedoms instead of celebrating Christ for what He accomplished on the cross for me?
I did some reading that morning and the scripture referenced a verse from John 16:33. It really struck home for me talking about how to handle disappointment. I’ve had my share over time, and John speaks true wisdom on how to handle that.
"I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33
I’ve often been told we can do whatever we put our mind to do. If we wish hard enough, we can “click our heels” and end up wherever our heart desires most. Some Christians say the same thing in a little different way, that Jesus is our “spiritual candy machine”, dispensing dreams and hopes at the push of a prayer. They say that God wants us to be happy and wants us to have everything we've ever wanted. We just need to believe and pray harder.
But so often, the reality of our life speaks otherwise. Disappointment is part of life in this fallen world. We shouldn't be surprised when things don't work out, when we face difficulty, or when life is disappointing...
We get a health diagnosis that requires treatments that wear us down physically, emotionally and spiritually. We deal with people issues at work that are difficult to navigate a solution for. We feel left out of community in our church. Our children have no interest in spiritual things... the list can go on and on.
Indeed, the disappointments in this life are too many to count.
But John points out there's hope even in the midst of our disappointments.
Jesus said we will have sorrow. We will have disappointments and heartaches. Anyone who tells us otherwise is preaching a false gospel. But Jesus also pointed to our hope, "I have overcome the world." Our hope and joy and contentment/celebration are not found in the things of this world but rather in Christ and what he has accomplished for us.
God often uses our struggles to help us learn from the challenges so that when disappointments come, we can ask ourselves, "What might God be doing?" "What do I need to learn from this?" "How can I seek him in this?" And rather than despair over our disappointments, we can remember that what disappoints us now will in the end make us more like our Savior. I continue to pray for help in having an eternal perspective... to see my disappointments in the light of what Jesus purchased for me at the cross. I also need help reminding myself that I need to seize disappointments as opportunities to draw closer to Christ, not further away from Him while feeling and seeing His love and grace for me.
May our life journeys and celebrations continue together in and through Christ!
Blessings your way!
Sincerely, Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated!
Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at: www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
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“Make a conscious effort to surround yourself with positive, nourishing and uplifting people – people who believe in you, encourage you and applaud your victories.” Jack Canfield
Greetings from Cedar Falls,
This past week has been challenging… I’m sad to share that one of my former students, Will Reinart passed away at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital at the age of 19. Will had been battling leukemia since he was 9 years old. I will always remember Will as a caring and loving person who definitely had an ongoing streak of optimism and determination as he dealt with a number of recurrences throughout his ten-year cancer journey. Will’s journey reminded me of the importance of having our own personal “Home Team” to help offer encouragement, positive influence and support during the challenging times we all will face in our lives. Will definitely had a supportive Home Team which started with his parents, Scott and Susan, his brothers, Sam and Daniel and also included his many classmates, instructors and friends. Surrounding yourself with positive people throughout your life who will compliment you, push you when needed and encourage you will start to seep into your daily life and character. I know Will’s spirit of optimism and determination definitely impacted my life journey in a very inspiring way!As you all know, there will be many ups and downs throughout a cancer journey. A comfort for me has been some words that were shared when I was originally diagnosed and working through treatments. Those words were; "Often our prayers and faith don’t save us from something, but rather, they save us for something." That statement has provided me a focus over the years. I often reflect on that as I've battled the anxieties and difficulties that go with living through cancer. Having faith, family and friends, despite those uneasy and often painful times we face as cancer patients and survivors gives us the strength and stamina to continue on. Will’s journey, and its impact on others through his optimism and determination certainly has helped provide many others, including myself, an inspirational boost. My hope is that each of us, as we struggle with whatever those “afflictions” may be in our lives, be encouraged to take the opportunity to be open about those struggles and seek out faith and friends as a means of support to provide hope and comfort.One of my most vivid memories of Will at Holmes Jr. High that truly defines the “Home Team” concept, was when our students came through with an incredible support project for Will who had a relapse in eighth grade after he had just undergone a stem cell bone marrow transplant. The Holmes Art Department, along with four of Will’s classmates and a number of Holmes students showed their support for Will by taking orders for yellow paper hats in recognition that September was Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. They then sold yellow paper hats at the beginning and end of the school day to help raise funds to support Will and his family during his treatments. Students were given a yellow hat on Friday, September 27th during our Intervention/Enrichment period called “Tiger Time”. All the students and staff went to the gym and donned their hats to shoot a school wide video. The video was then shared with the Reinart family and the greater Holmes Junior High community via youtube as a gesture of our caring support for Will and his family. The money raised along with the video was a way to show our school’s support for the Reinart family. I have listed a link below to view the video to share the story of our students and staff coming together as part of Will’s “Home Team” to provide Will and his family the hope and comfort that only friends and family can provide during such a difficult time.
You Tube link: “A Rally for Will”: http://youtu.be/v5OELY6bo08
The Assembly made me once again realize how important our friends and loved ones are in helping summon the strength and courage to "fight the battle" against this disease. I feel so fortunate to have such a team in my “dugout” and I know Will’s family have all of us in their dugout to help provide love, encouragement and support during this difficult time in their lives. I am so proud of our students for rallying for Will and grateful for having them as a means of support to provide hope and comfort… We often hear people complaining about their suffering and that brings to mind a comment made by Joel Osteen which has stuck with me and seems appropriate after watching our students and staff at the assembly.
“Encouragement is a wonderful thing, and people do not receive enough during difficult times. You need to be around people who are encouraging.” I have to say, we couldn't be in a better place to have that happen than in our school system and in this community we call home!
This week also brought to mind a couple of verses that I have struggled with regarding the concept of the spiritual disciplines of celebration and gratitude given this past week’s happenings…
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”Philippians 4:4
“Weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:15
As I stood in line at Will’s visitation, I couldn’t help but think back to when the initial results of my cancer biopsy in Iowa City were shared with me on my 55thbirthday… I have to be honest… on that day, I literally flunked the Spiritual Discipline of Celebration and Gratitude test. I had been racing from one completed job to another as a Principal prior to that day without stopping to enjoy any of the accomplishments and celebrations along the way. Yet every time I completed one of those jobs and moved on to another, I felt God’s gentle invitation to grow in this discipline. My soul was hungering for the joy, the delight, the opportunity to dance with God in celebration.
The discussion of the spiritual discipline of “celebration” can be quite confrontational and deep. Typically, we celebrate what we intrinsically value. If we look at our discipline(s) in life and/or lack thereof… it might actually point to an unsettling reality that we do not value with our actions what we often profess to value with our words. For me it begs the question of how often do I celebrate my comforts, preferences, or freedoms instead of celebrating Christ for what He accomplished on the cross for me?
I did some reading that morning and the scripture referenced a verse from John 16:33. It really struck home for me talking about how to handle disappointment. I’ve had my share over time, and John speaks true wisdom on how to handle that.
"I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33
I’ve often been told we can do whatever we put our mind to do. If we wish hard enough, we can “click our heels” and end up wherever our heart desires most. Some Christians say the same thing in a little different way, that Jesus is our “spiritual candy machine”, dispensing dreams and hopes at the push of a prayer. They say that God wants us to be happy and wants us to have everything we've ever wanted. We just need to believe and pray harder.
But so often, the reality of our life speaks otherwise. Disappointment is part of life in this fallen world. We shouldn't be surprised when things don't work out, when we face difficulty, or when life is disappointing...
We get a health diagnosis that requires treatments that wear us down physically, emotionally and spiritually. We deal with people issues at work that are difficult to navigate a solution for. We feel left out of community in our church. Our children have no interest in spiritual things... the list can go on and on.
Indeed, the disappointments in this life are too many to count.
But John points out there's hope even in the midst of our disappointments.
Jesus said we will have sorrow. We will have disappointments and heartaches. Anyone who tells us otherwise is preaching a false gospel. But Jesus also pointed to our hope, "I have overcome the world." Our hope and joy and contentment/celebration are not found in the things of this world but rather in Christ and what he has accomplished for us.
God often uses our struggles to help us learn from the challenges so that when disappointments come, we can ask ourselves, "What might God be doing?" "What do I need to learn from this?" "How can I seek him in this?" And rather than despair over our disappointments, we can remember that what disappoints us now will in the end make us more like our Savior. I continue to pray for help in having an eternal perspective... to see my disappointments in the light of what Jesus purchased for me at the cross. I also need help reminding myself that I need to seize disappointments as opportunities to draw closer to Christ, not further away from Him while feeling and seeing His love and grace for me.
May our life journeys and celebrations continue together in and through Christ!
Blessings your way!
Sincerely, Dave
Are you or someone you know fighting cancer... struggling with the physical, emotional and spiritual issues that accompany a cancer journey or other serious health issue? Making ourselves available to others can open up the doors of opportunity for deeper relationships, healing, and transformation. For many, time is one of the most valuable commodities in today's fast-paced world. Sharing time with others is a wonderful gift. It says, "Here I am... for you. To listen, to care, to serve." The power of presence should never be underestimated! Be an encourager in someone else’s life!
To learn more about being an encourager, and to view the Reflections blog, visit the Reflections from the Home Team website at: www.reflectionsfromthehometeam.com/
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