When I was younger, I didn't know any different. Our house was always full of people, whether it was missionaries or people visiting BBC, or more often then not, my dad's players. (by the way, that clearly didn't come in handy in the dating world, as I am still single!) My dad traveled almost all summer with the Defender 5, a group of basketball players who used sport as a ministry. Sometimes our family went with them, but more then not, we didn't. And as anyone growing up with a parent who coached, you know what the season is like! But this was our life and it impacted me a lot.
I watched my mom serve, cook for all the boys, take care of us three kids while dad was gone, go to my games, go back to school and all of the other countless things she did to minister to others. To be honest, there were times when I didn't like the fact that dad was gone so much. I wanted him at MY games. But I watched him use sport as a ministry and that also became my passion. I knew in middle school that I wanted to do something similar. I saw the lives that were encouraged and impacted by what he did.
Now that I am older and watch "his guys" from afar, often times on Facebook, I am thankful for a mom and dad who followed the path God had for them. Sure, other people influenced these men and women, but I am blessed by hearing how my dad played a part in their lives.
My 80's college reunion is happening this weekend. I will miss the big party, but hopefully can see some friends over the weekend. But as I am watching some of these guys come back and go see dad and write such kind words about him, it makes all those times when he was gone or at a game, worth it. It also is a reminder to me to thank those who influenced me (or tried to!) as I was in college and afterwards.
So thanks to all my "big brothers" who have stopped by to say hi to dad or have written kind notes. I will make sure he sees them.
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