Ode to Libby Mae this Christmas

You’re a sweet one, Libby Mae.
You really are a prize.
You’re as cuddly as a lovey,
You’re as charming as an rose,
Libby Mae.
You’re a ripe tomato with plumpy red fruit.

You’re a beauty, Libby Mae.
Your heart’s so innocent.
Your brain is full of unsaid thoughts,
You’ve got smiles in your soul, Libby Mae.
I would hold you every hour,
Three hundred sixty-five days a year.

You’re a smart one, Libby Mae.
You have laughter in your smile.
You have all the tender goodness of a new born poddle dog,
Libby Mae.
Given the choice between the two of you,
I’d take the lovely Libby Mae.

You’re a cute one, Libby Mae.
You’re a fancy, dancey blonde
Your heart is full of spawkaley jewels,
Your soul is full of joy,
Libby Mae.

The three words that best describe you,
Are as follows, and I quote,
“Star!
Starred!
Starry!”

You’re a toddler Libby Mae.
You’re the queen of fashion shoes,
Your heart swims like fishes with flashy purple stripes.
Libby Mae!

Your soul is an overflowing fountain
Flooded with the most precious
Combination of personality and wit imaginable,
Wrapped up as pleasant Christmas gifts.

You excite me, Libby Mae.
Your purpose is secure.
You’re a funny bunny runny and
You run a runners gait
Libby Mae!

You’re a three flavor sundae,
And frozen yogurt
With pineapple sauce!

Please Overhaul the Baseball Playoffs

There is nothing wrong with the game of baseball and very little wrong with the sport itself.  One of those wrong things happens to be the current construct of the playoffs.  The current system is terrible to put it bluntly.  Even worse with this "play-in" game with the bonus wild card team.  Can I tell you how I really feel?

Never have I been a fan of the wild card.  The main reason is that it reeks of imitating the NFL.  Not.A.Football.Fan.  The other reason is that allowing it diminishes the division winners.

I know, this current experiment has been a smashing success.  The money is flowing because more teams are in contention at later dates within the long season.  I get it.  Collect a bigger pile of cash and brag.

Please allow myself to propose a playoff plan that serves the progressive "let's change for the sake of change" crowd, the cash starved people in charge and the classical baseball fan who just wants to see the best play in the purest form.  Don't be a hater, just give me a chance to explain.

The playoff system cannot be fixed unless there are some changes to the way the regular season is played.  First, division winners play to determine a champion.  No wild card.  Realign the 30 teams within the same 2 league format.  Next, create 4 divisions in each league that promotes regional rivalries.  Local media outlets would benefit with more intense attention and the fans would have something to follow despite their favorite teams standing good or bad.  Here is how I would make those divisions:

National League 

* North *
Baltimore
Philadelphia
Pittsburgh
Washington
* West *
Arizona
LA Angels
LA Dodgers
San Diego
* South *
Atlanta
Miami
Tampa
* Midwest *
Chicago Cubs
Chicago White Sox
Milwaukee
Minnesota
American League 

* North *
Boston
NY Mets
NY Yankees
Toronto
* West *
Colorado
Oakland
San Fransisco
Seattle
* South *
Houston
Kansas City
St. Louis
Texas
* Midwest *
Cincinnati
Cleveland
Detroit

Next, with this restructuring there will no longer be a need for inter-league play.  That was a good experiment for a few years, but now the only thing good about it is when the Yankees or Red Sox come into town and boost ticket sales.

Another tough decision will be to finally eliminate the awkward blending of 2 styles of play.  As much as I love the strategy of the double switch and the accountability of the pitcher holding a bat, I think it is time to promote the DH across the board.  The chicks dig the long ball.

The benefits of all of this beside the increased regional interest (especially in weaker markets) is the prolonged competition for division crowns throughout the summer and fall.  Smaller divisions keep hopes high and the wheels turning as it relates to fan interest and General Manager tinkering.  Additionally, teams can cut costs on travel as more shorter trips would be made because a large percentage of those games would be located not too far away.

This "new" season poses some scheduling difficulty, but I will go there in a minute.  (What is worse--playoff problems or schedule problems?)  Now for the playoff format.  The division winners are the playoff teams.  There would be 8 teams--more than your grandfathers era but fewer than the current "get close because even though we weren't good enough to win our division, the 4th and 5th best records in our league is good enough" policy.  Win to play is a better format and tournament.  The first round series of 5 games in each respective league would be seeded according to regular season record with the better earning home field advantage.  (1v4, 2v3).  You have noticed that I said "series".  Please read between the lines to understand how I feel about the current 1 game play-in game.  |awful|.  The second round will also be a best of 5 game series with the winners earning the right to play in the World Series.  Home field advantage means the team with the better overall record plays games 1, 2 and 5 at their park and their opponent gets games 3 and 4.  The World Series, of course, pits the winners of the previous round; 1 from each league.

What I have always loved about the World Series (I mean, used to love) is the mystery of the battle.  With this reformed season as I have proposed, the teams competing would only know each other on paper.  No prior experience to gauge how it may turn out; just a scouting report and a hunch.  Outside of Cincinnati, who honestly thought the '90 Reds had a chance against the (puffed up) A's?

Ok, now for the various problems to iron out.  The main one is scheduling.  Because of the imbalance of the divisions, gaps are created.  Teams within division play each other the most as compared to the other league teams.  Beyond that, the remainder of the schedule can be determined using the NFL formula (if you have to use football as a model).  Better record teams from the previous year play each other more while the bad teams play each other more.  Each team will make all the trips, coast to coast.  So, the schedule isn't balanced per say, but the "playing field" is smoothed out to give even the Kansas City Royals a glimmer of hope.

Another problem someone is bound to make is the extended number of games on the playoff slate.  Easy fix--no days off, just play everyday like what ball players are used to.  If TBS doesn't approve, then offer the rights to HSN!

What else?  Critics, on your mark, get set, Go!

Inning 4: Respect

I have been off the grid for awhile but busy doing the things that as a baseball coach and instructor you would expect.  My motivation now is flowing from the excitement of the MLB playoffs.  Game #1 today, right now inning #4 in this series [why baseball matters personally].

What I love about October baseball is the esteem that is given to the participating teams.  These playoff teams are considered the best for this season.  The players and coaches that represent these teams are revered for making it through to the end.  The grind, as a MLB season is often referred to, is done and October serves as the season where ultimate respect is earned.

Baseball is a training ground for learning respect.  The best teams are not always those with the best skilled players.  Teams that win the games that matter most are those filled with players who respect the game, their opponent, their teammates, and themselves.  Respect is learned through the thrill of victory, the disappointment of defeat, the process of competing--the whole experience of playing the game.

Respect does not mean getting along with everybody all the time.  Heck, even liking someone is not required to respect them.  In baseball, respect looks like this:

• accepting the best that others give (teammates, coaches, opponents, umpires)
• trusting coaches to teach and help
• listening to instruction and learning from expertise and experience
• accepting the calls made by umpires
• celebrating the accomplishments of teammates (tipping the cap to rival accomplishments)

Lately I have been working with 8 year old players teaching pitching mechanics.  Pitching is hard no matter what age but especially for players who have never done it before.  My policy for this age group is that pitchers must also catch.  There is nothing like wearing the gear and running repeatedly to the backstop chasing wild pitches, blocking baseballs off the chest, and taking batted balls off the mask to learn respect.  Getting practical perspective helps both pitchers and catchers to understand how difficult it is to perform.

It is in the environment of process and experience that respect is truly learned.  Working within a framework where certain outcomes are pursued is a learning environment like no other.  A team with expectations and a plan to execute is a unit of individuals who are taking responsibility; acknowledging and maximizing strengths and minimizing weaknesses; and purposing toward and end that is bigger than themselves.  This is the mission of Upside Baseball.

We as people are capable of big things; much bigger things than we actually believe.  Expecting more is to respect potential.  Respect is a stepping stone to achievement.  It is not a one time deal but an on-going management of belief, effort, teamwork, and trust.

As to the outcome of the playoffs?  A toss up.  The differences in skill and performance is so small among the teams.  One thing you can be sure of--there will be plenty of respect dished out on all fronts.

Nowhere Is Somewhere

I'm silenced God
My thoughts are rushing
So many thank yous
Nerves pressing in
My stomach is tight
A headache is surfacing

The time to think is good
Quiet stillness heals
Your presence commands
a patient outlook
and a humble perspective
Lord, you are right

What's next
Your plans for me
Not knowing
can be wisdom
To seek your face
You, God, find and hold me

New energy comes
Lord, your resources are deep
You take meager things
and produce fruit
Out of nowhere blessings flow
Nowhere is somewhere

To adequately thank you
seems impossible
In spite of my limits
Lord, Your love is pure
Nowhere is somewhere
That somewhere is You

Amen

Line Between Waiting & Trusting

If you have been following then it is more than obvious that my prayer writing plan is shot.  Summer has been busy to say it mildly.  I have a great deal to be thankful about as well as significant questions pertaining to my immediate future.  At least I have God.  No, at most I have God!
_________________________________________________________________________________

Line Between Waiting & Trusting

Lord, life has been moving fast.  You have watched me the whole way.  I hope I have represented you well. Not just that, I hope I have made an impact.  Thank you for placing me in the path I find myself.  I feel like a kid again.

This summer has been full of gifts.  God, you have blessed me with new connections.  You have allowed me to fulfill dreams.  Fresh focus you have granted for my benefit.  Mostly God, my family has been provided for because of your generous open hand.

Summer is almost gone.  There are questions and needs that are gaining momentum.  I need to take action, but I wait for you.  Where is the line between waiting and trusting?  You have told me to "go the distance" and to "sacrifice."  I don't feel like I've done either even though my circumstances paint a different picture.  What does this mean?  Am I confused if I don't know which to ask:  "How much longer?" or "Has it started yet?".

Lord, come meet me in this place.  In the depths of my heart and in the bewilderment of my mind--come.  Infuse in my life more of your peace.  Grant me wisdom, God as I sort through next steps.  Please provide me options to sort through.  Make your voice loud and the distractions silent as I walk with you.

My thanks and needs I present sincerely,
Amen.

Just A Crumb

One of my goals for the new year is to learn better how to pray; rather, to better connect with God.  Since I write as a hobby, I thought writing prayers may be a fresh approach to a sacred practice.  As you read these, please know that God is my intended audience.  I have prayed these words over and over.  I publish these here as a secondary act; praying that maybe some of you may connect to God.

*          *          *

Lord God, I am physically worn down.  My body is tired which leads my thinking and feeling to be somewhat volatile.  You know this already.  You made me.  Thank you for those things that are keeping me moving.  Family, kids, coaching, home improvements, thinking and planning, career change -- all of these are good with fruit to spare.

Give me strength Lord.  I need your Spirit to flood my mind and heart.  This body is a shell and can take a pounding but not without a firm foundation.

Give me rest Lord.  I want to be everything you mean for me to be.  The journey is long, and I want to be strong at every point along the way.

The smallest portion of what you have Lord is enough.  Please offer me just a crumb.  Already I am being filled just by your presence.  My hope is in you.  Thank you for being good and true.  Thank you for loving me the way you do.

Amen.

Inning 3: Trust

Is being stubborn a result of lacking trust?  I don't know.  Maybe not in every case, but I can see a trust issue in those who will not take advice or refuse instruction.  I have coached more than one player who ignored specific advice meant exclusively for them to use for improved performance.  For many, learning the hard way is the most effective way for growth.

This does not sit right.  I do not feel comfortable knowing that there are those who must hit rock bottom to get the synapse firing and the heart pounding.  In fact, this reality saddens me.  If legitimate trust is formed in any given environment maybe hitting rock bottom does not have to be.

Trust is never given but always earned.  The trust principle is used everyday; in our conversations, shopping, driving, business dealings and even in the decision to accept or reject advice.  Trust then is exchanged between parties who have proven to be trustworthy.  It starts with good people; people who seek to promote you not to take advantage of you.

In baseball, trust is a character trait that can be developed.  There are many examples within the game that give players the opportunity to practice gaining trust.  I've made a list:

• pitcher accepting a sign from the catcher
• infielders covering the correct bases
• outfielders backing up appropriately
• catcher blocking wild pitches
• hit and run execution
• suicide bunt execution

Remember, trust is always earned, never given.  Having developed trust with teammates means being confident in them to perform as coached and displaying a self confidence proving to teammates and coaches a high level of competency.

As a coach and instructor, teaching trust is a long process.  Learning to trust depends on knowledge and understanding of the skills necessary to play in addition to a redundancy of repetition.  Because errors are made, trust takes time.  Physical errors, mental errors and relational barriers keep a player from complete trust.

Teaching trust is a challenging but rewarding endeavor.  Whether with individual baseball players at Upside Baseball or coaching a team, I set expectations right from the start.  Communicating clearly helps lay the ground work of learning the skills necessary to perform.  Players are instructed as to the demands of the various positions.  Individually, the mechanics of skill execution is analysed and tweaked (or re-built if necessary).  Repetition then follows.  Lots of ground balls, fly balls, swings, pitches, bunt coverage, balls in the dirt for blocking, rundowns, relays...Over and over again.

Finally, none of this is any good unless I as a coach and instructor build a rapport with the players.  Care.  Be interested in their lives.  Know them apart from baseball.

Can you see now how baseball is the ultimate metaphor and classroom for life?

Is My Passion Misdirected?

One of my goals for the new year is to learn better how to pray; rather, to better connect with God.  Since I write as a hobby, I thought writing prayers may be a fresh approach to a sacred practice.  As you read these, please know that God is my intended audience.  I have prayed these words over and over.  I publish these here as a secondary act; praying that maybe some of you may connect to God.

*          *          *

Father God, I approach you out of need not want.
I know full well that you are my source--
peace, strength, and wisdom.
All these things I ask for.
You Father, give abundantly; I need just a portion.
Maybe I need more than I think.
Please grant as you see and know my depths.

Your  generosity God is more than I can take.

I have so much.  All around me, life is good.
Why do I feel so dry?
Joy comes easily.  I am satisfied with much.
It's the other part of me that feels numb.
Anger, disappointment, and grief are all short lived.
Is my passion misdirected?
I don't want to feel so cold, Lord.

Your Spirit God gives me life.

Inning 2: Communication

(If not playing) baseball's best experience is from the ballpark stands.  The game does not project well from television.  What a viewer does not see is the constant stream of communication that is happening at a rapid pace.  The majority of the dialogue is non-verbal, a foreign language really, when seen by onlookers.  To see all the hand motions is really quite mesmerizing.

Middle infielders discuss behind the curtain of their gloves who will cover the second base bag.  Catchers talk a lot.  They signal the pitcher, of course, suggesting a certain pitch and location using just their fingers.  The pitcher taking the lead, nods in agreement or shakes for another option.  Also, catchers signal the other defenders for first and third coverages letting all know where he will throw if the corner base runners try to advance.  A flurry of signs come from the dugout to third base coaches to relay to batters and to fielders for defensive positioning.

As you have figured out by now, the communication happens before the action of the game unfolds.  The communication is the result of the plans that have been made to execute success.  Rarely is a decision made within the flow of a given play.  The baseball play is mostly directed by advance preparation.  The communication sets it all up.  You can guess what happens if communication breaks down.  A failure to communicate leads to a lack of execution.  Just ask that third base runner how he feels when he is barreling down the line toward home plate and does not see the batter square to bunt.  His heart jumps out of his chest praying the hitter does not swing.  This is what it looks like to have your life flash before your very eyes.

As a coach and private instructor, the first lesson in communication relating to character development is ears first, mouth second.  The reason is simple.  We are made with two ears and only one mouth, which naturally means we should listen twice as much as talk.  Without listening, communication cannot happen.

Good communication is like a good game of catch.  Both the thrower and receiver are involved.  The information gets sent (ball is thrown) and the receiver retrieves the information or message (ball is caught).  Now the reverse, the roles change and new information is sent, back and forth.  With my players I am sure to keep an open line of dialogue.  I am interested in what each of them are thinking and feeling.  Both their body language and words tell me most everything I need to know.  My players also hear from me.  I like the word feedback because my message is honest and meant to compliment what they have shared.  Part of my job is to be sure they know that I am listening.  The other part is to use what I have learned from them and give back new information to help them improve.

The life application of baseball's style of communication teaches to get to the point clearly and quickly.  If our attention or focus is distracted or diverted, a breakdown is the result.  Communication is a hard skill to master.  I tell my guys, "if you're not sure, step out of the box and ask me to repeat the signs."

Communication is learned as we go, playing and living together.

Excellent Things

One of my goals for the new year is to learn better how to pray; rather, to better connect with God.  Since I write as a hobby, I thought writing prayers may be a fresh approach to a sacred practice.  As you read these, please know that God is my intended audience.  I have prayed these words over and over.  I publish these here as a secondary act; praying that maybe some of you may connect to God.

*          *          *

Father, you are amazing
and true.
I have read about peace and sure enough,
you are right.
Paul, your servant, says to think about
excellent things.
Thinking...an abundance of gifts,
so many to note.
Father, you are gracious
and good.

During difficult times, your peace is the
perfect ointment.
Vision, plans, purpose and will
don't stop.
I think delay or roadblock and you
present opportunity.
How much more am I missing?
Lord speak.
Gratefully I present myself to you
and peace I accept.

Amen.

Inning 1: Responsibility

Series Introduction:
The most wonderful time of the year has begun.  Baseball season, which spans February through October, is a major holiday celebrating youth, memories from our past, dreams for tomorrow, a connector to meaningful relationships, and the development of character in a setting as fun as any learning environment can be.

The focus of this new series will be what baseball offers outside of the obvious short term joy of play.  This game offers a classroom unlike any other for character formation and life skills.  Follow along as we play 9 innings and explore what baseball is really all about.

*          *          *

Baseball is a great teacher of responsibility.  Responsibility is a character trait we hold highly as a society.  As parents, consumers, tax payers, neighbors, employers, employees, relatives, etc. we at all times expect others to do particular things, to behave a certain way, and to share our own values and beliefs.  It is called living responsible lives.  To be responsible, therefore, is to have the ability to respond appropriately.  To exercise self control and do right things independently is to show responsibility.

Many things come to mind when looking at responsibility in the context of baseball.

• bunt coverage assignments
• signals to base runners & hitters
• pitch sequencing
• stolen base coverage's
• pick-off attempts & throw overs
• cutoff throws

In baseball, every pitch matters, because there is always something to see and analyze.  With every play, all nine players on the field have to be in motion covering new ground or expanding their territory on the field.  Even if a play does not directly involve a certain position, that player has an assignment to fulfill in anticipation of the play going bad.  Of course, don't expect the worse, but prepare for it just in case.  It is easy for outfielders not to cover the overthrown territory behind bases but it is necessary.  It takes discipline to run to a spot and not be involved in the play.  This is how character is built.  Doing something because it is the right thing to do not because it brings immediate satisfaction or personal glory.

As a baseball instructor, I am careful to go deeper in my lesson application with my players.  To begin teaching responsibility is a tricky process because learning to be responsible depends on the player valuing doing right.  With each player I work with, I set a routine in lessons and in independent practice.  Each lesson is customized but predictable once the player becomes familiar with what is expected.  Establishing a routine is critical when leaning to work and act independently.  Guesswork is minimized when certain expectations are a given.  When the player knows I am going to critique all 13 check points of a good hitting stance, the player takes special care to pay attention to each one.

Assigned tasks are given to execute outside of the private workout.  The player is asked to track their practice habits.  These tasks involve baseball drills for at-home improvement and unique tasks the player should be responsible over in daily living like homework and polite responses to others.  We always take time during the private lessons to define these tasks and together decide what is reasonable.  The private lesson ends by reviewing the results of the assigned tasks given in the previous lesson.  Talking through it together is quite motivational as the player wants to prove himself.  Perfect practice for life's issues even before they appear.

Responsibility is only one of many character qualities that baseball reinforces.  What a fun and safe opportunity to learn this much needed trait.  To learn more about character formation and baseball visit my company, Upside Baseball, either on the web or facebook.

Consider the Lilies of the Field

One of my goals for the new year is learn better how to pray; rather, to better connect with God.  Since I write as a hobby, I thought writing prayers may be a fresh approach to a sacred practice.  As you read these, please know that God is my intended audience.  I have prayed these words over and over.  I publish these here as a secondary act; praying that maybe some of you may connect to God.

*     *     *

Consider the Lilies of the Field

What a weird few days it’s been Lord.  Life can get turned upside down real fast.
Everyone seems to be worried for me.
Or mad over the personal circumstances facing me.
Mostly concerned about the family.  Rightly so.

It’s funny how comfortable we all get when certain things are in order.
But as soon as one of these things gets messed with panic sets in.
God you are not hiding, you’ve been here all along.
Thank you for this discomfort pushing me onward.

I feel good, and I know it’s because of you and your great work in me.
You are teaching me about peace.  And making peace in my life.
Paul says to rejoice and to think about good things.
Your Son says to consider the lilies of the field.

My burden is lighter not greater.
Saying that doesn’t sound right--makes no sense whatsoever.
It’s true, no matter how it sounds.
My mind is clear and my sleep restful.

This was a long time coming and I’m glad it’s finally here.
I’m not looking back, knowing that better things are about to begin.
People wonder why I’m not bitter or depressed.
My answer is simple and absolutely clear.

God it is all you.  You have filled my void with hope.
Confirming what you’ve said makes my heart skip a beat.
Sacrifice is what I heard you say.
First with my ears now with my eyes, Lord give me the resources to live by.

Amen.

What Is Your Perfect Day?

Many of you are off and running with your personal goals for the new year.  With only 27 days in, the motivation and focus is still fairly strong.  Soon it will be February.

Learning from other baseball instructors as well as from personal development/leadership reading, one way to stay on track is to visualize success.  This is just a simple exercise of imagining what it would be like to lose 20 lbs. or to stop smoking.  The key to this visualization is to get lost in the details.  Day dreaming is acceptable after all!

As for me, I like to think about what a perfect day would look like.  Follow me to the land of make believe and see what I visualize for a day like today in the dead of winter.

7:00 am -- rise and shine
7:30 -- coffee and devotional reading and study
8:00 -- breakfast (my fav is a goetta omellet)
8:30 -- creating (networking, reading, writing, planning)
10:30 -- workout
noon -- lunch (i love leftovers from the night before)
1:00 pm -- office, managing my business
3:00 -- team practice (baseball starts early)
5:00 -- supper (Have you seen Hilary's meals?!)
6:00 -- family time
9:00 -- wifey time
10:30 -- bed

Now you try it.  I am a firm believer in writing this stuff down.  The action of writing takes abstract thoughts and shapes them into tangible ideas.

What is your perfect day?

Loosen The Clogs of Pattern

One of my goal for this new year is to learn better how to pray; rather, to better connect with God.  Since I write as a hobby, I thought writing prayers may be a fresh approach to a sacred practice.  As you read these, please know that God is my intended audience.  I have prayed these words over and over.  I publish these here as a secondary act; praying that maybe some of you may connect with God.
_________________________________________________________________________________

Loosen The Clogs of Pattern

Where to begin Lord, I do not know.
Prayer sounds simple yet it is so hard.
The words do not come, my mind locks up tight.
My best it seems are words lazy and rote.
Why can't I converse like you are right in the room?
I have learned you are here and believe it is true.

I want to experience my moments with you.
Lord, let me get lost in my sharing.
I am feeling and thinking so much --
plans, dreams, questions, frustrations, failures.
You know it all, but in delivery I am bound.
This is foolish not knowing what to say.

Early on I learned to pray a certain way.
Formula and form were impressions of correctness.
Now I am trying to know you deeper,
and talking casually, strangely is not easier.
Pen to paper may loosen the clogs of my pattern.
Lord, please know, my heart is open.

Amen.

What I Want For Christmas

The word I have heard most often in my praying of recent weeks is "sacrifice."  That's it.  I do not have any more insight or context, just a confidence that God has spoken.  In preparation for 2012, this is what I want for Christmas:

• wisdom
• continued confirmation
• appropriate resources
• TV series suggestions
• deeper connections
• ideas
• fresh vigor
• unique perspective
• low carb pork lo mein
• official Red Ryder carbine-action two hundred shot range model air rifle with a compass in the stock (smile)

What do you want?

"The days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will raise up to David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land."  (Jeremiah 23:5)

Clear Eyes, Full Hearts

There is a small verse in the final chapter of John's gospel that has jumped out in a big way.  It is sort of tucked away and I suppose in my haste, have overlooked its power in past readings.

Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord."  So when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put his outer garment on (for he was stripped for work), and threw himself into the sea.  John 21:7 (for context read whole chapter)

John was an insider, a part of Jesus' core group of followers--a close friend.  I presume that John was close friends with Peter, also a core member.  This is an easy conclusion because these two men spent 3 years together following Jesus' every word and step.  Never mind that these two probably were acquaintances before that since they shared the same profession.

John knew full well Peter's embarrassing moments.  He was in the boat when Peter stepped out onto the water only to sink and need rescue.  And even though John wasn't in the courtyard with Peter during the series of denials of knowing Jesus, surely he knew.  If by no other way, John would have learned of Peter's failure from Matthew who makes it public in his gospel account.

This time, when Peter sees Jesus in the distance; his Lord who has defeated death, he plunges into the water only to swim to shore to greet the man whom he denied.  Peter's only hesitation is to get dressed before approaching the Lord.  Respect. Love. Faith--big time.

This was no miracle, only a culmination of what God had been doing in Peter's heart.  John saw Jesus with clear eyes.  When John told Peter "It is the Lord" it was all Peter needed to redeem himself in his prior lack of faith.  Jesus gave him this opportunity.  Peter took it.

Walking on water isn't proof of devotion.  Running (or swimming) to Jesus is spite of yourself is a demonstration of Christ centered faith.

Only a friend would have told that story.  I think John knew Peter's guilt and had watched him suffer personally for his failings.  John was impacted by what he saw.  In his pride for his friend, this story is included because it is big enough to impact us.

I think of my own failures and am reminded by John that Jesus still comes around and waits for me to approach.  I don't want to live with the guilt.  John teaches me I don't have too.  The sacrifice of Jesus is enough.  Redemption is mine because of Jesus.  Just like Peter I still feel responsible and with a full heart desire a chance to make it right.  When I see Jesus I can't help but jump.

Clear eyes.  Full hearts.  Can't lose.

Gratefully

Yellow, red, cold, dying; of changing days the signs are clear
Surely a season of reflection, Thanksgiving is here
The world in its ways claim a year of nothing but bad
Bankrupt nations, wars, and occupation; it's natural to be sad

Of personal note, please let me competently say
Tasting success in business and baseball is well underway
Children growing strong and marriage passionately sweet
Challenges at home and maturing faith makes life valuable and complete

Family together loving and healthy.  We all cheer
A spring break in New York City make new memories so dear
Starting Upside and coaching a blessing hands down
Instructing the best this summer down in Tiger Town

Serving in the Queen City new life is carefully seeded
Uptown is the spot where God's call is faithfully heeded
Reminded of His provision and grace overwhelmingly
A full year, so much, so good I offer this gratefully

Running Again: What I've Learned

Running is hard on the body.  Being an amateur I did not know what I was doing when I started the long distances some 4 years ago.  I have learned some things along the way but still consider myself a novice.

There is nothing like adversity to teach the lessons that stick.  I have had my share.  I am just now back on the running trail after a year of recovering from some hip issues.  The miles of pounding caught up to me.  I am running again and feeling great.

From me to you the lessons I have learned:
#1)  Know your body.  Your body has its own voice.  Listen carefully and respond accordingly.  I am the kind of guy that reads line by line the instructions on the build/fix it yourself project and will not deviate from it.  Running smarter means backing off when my energy level is down or cutting back the mileage when my knees start barking.  Adjust the running program to fit your body on any given day.  I have learned that because of my hip issues I need more rest in between runs, especially in preparation for a long run.  I may not run the prescribed distances during a given week but when I run my performance is good, physically and mentally.

#2)  Engage your mind.  The hardest part about running is not the physical but the mental.  Strengthening the mind is an important component of distance running.  I have tried lots of things to get stronger mentally.  I read, constantly.  This helps...I think.  I have loaded my ipod with the typical motivational tunes to cheer me on.  I have also listened to familiar music to keep me comfortable and entertained.  I have even gone wireless.  No earbuds, period.  The familiar stuff tends to neither motivate nor entertain.  For me, it becomes background noise for my brain to focus on the physical and mental distress of the moment.

Here is where I should say that I do not run recreationally.  This is not fun.  Competition is fun, but running is not.  It is for the competition effect plus the health benefits that I run.

Back to the tunes.  Lately, I am running to the orchestral sounds of Tchaikovsky.  Because I am not familiar with the music--it is richly complex--my mind becomes engaged.  Locked in and focused my run suddenly moves along hardly noticing the physical demands required.  My best thinking comes while running.  Ideas, plans, prayers, and even questions flow more readily.  May I recommend Tchaikovsky's masterpiece opera, Eugene Onegin?

#3)  Ignore time during training.  I am so competitive that this is a tough one.  My über competitive spirit probably is the chief cause of my running injuries.  Running hard too soon not only wears the joints prematurely but wears out the mind when seeking top performance every day plus on race day.  Just put the miles in and forget the time.  The time is irrelevant until you cross the start line.  Do the work of conditioning and preparation during training.  Compete during the race.  Maybe this is not practical advice for those of you trying to qualify for Boston.  I care deeply about time, but for now have learned not to care during training.  I will save up all that energy for the Pig.

With the words of Forrest Gump, an avid runner himself, I will conclude.

Now, you wouldn't believe it if I told you, but I could run like the wind blows.  From that day on, if I was going somewhere, I was running.

Triple W: A Philosophy of Winning

There is a beautiful passage in Isaiah that has inspired me.  More than that, these poetic (and purposeful) words have reminded me of God's confirmation of His favor in my life.

The spirit of the Lord God is upon me,
Because the Lord has anointed me
To bring good news to the afflicted;
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
To proclaim the favorable year of the Lord
And the day of vengeance of our God;
To comfort all who mourn,
To grant those who mourn in Zion,
Giving them a garland instead of ashes,
The oil of gladness instead of mourning,
The mantle of praise instead of a spirit of fainting.
So they will be called oaks of righteousness,
The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.
Isaiah 61:1-3 (NAS)

A friend and I recently shared a breakfast table discussing the dwindling influence of the (lower case) church and exploring examples from other friends of how God is on the move within the (upper case) church.  My friend and I are encouraged to know confirmation of God's favor by granting us success in our desired interests.  A new (old) model of ministry, my friend explained, falls outside the context of organizational church but into the places where Christians live and work.

This conversation corresponds with the triple W philosophy of winning, which is a "map" to getting to that ultimate place of personal ministry.

The first stop on the road to personal victory is to Watch.  Study and learn.  Be attentive with eyes and ears, listening carefully to the voice of God.  Observe every detail about others, and especially yourself.  Know yourself inside and out, even at the risk of being confronted with scars, warts and deeply embedded thorns.  The person who ought to know me best is me.  Seeing the living God at work in my life is the point of the Watch.  The process of making sense of identity and being (coming to terms with the real me) pumps fresh energy into this otherwise mundane existence.

Next, while the Watch is on, the Work must begin and never end.  Success demands hard work. You knew that already.  The observations that have been made now require some analysis and conclusions.  Form a game plan, adjust when necessary and put in both the time and effort enacting that plan toward the goal.  The goal, remember, was/is being realized while watching.  The Work then is thinking, decision making, trial and error, networking, risk taking; in other words, blood, sweat and tears.

Finally, while watching and working, it is also important to Wait.  This stop on the road can either be the easiest or hardest.  For some, to wait is a positive spin on just being lazy, and so becomes a justified step although misguided.  For others, impatience makes waiting almost impossible.  This is tricky.  Waiting is simply developing patience and not jumping too quickly or too slowly at opportunities.  It is sifting through the mine of glowing rocks discovered at the Work stop and determining if the rocks are gems or just shiny rocks.  Waiting requires productive inaction.  Wait, this does make sense.  Waiting requires action but of the wise sort.  It is being smart and letting the best stuff come to you.

Watch--Work--Wait.  Winning means success and living a life that comes a little easier on most days because despite the normal challenges, being what God intended is so refreshing and exciting and inspirational and productive.  The Church marches on as we serve and love each other, sinner and saint alike, enjoying the fabric of our own skin.  Not hiding behind the walls of history or being threatened by the noose of doctrine, the Church lives and breathes and praises God by simply offering the greatest gift we can give...ourselves.

Finding Pleasure in the Grind

How do you get from here to there?

Pursuing dreams and realizing goals accomplished is of course an important pursuit.  And for those who are into all that "chase your dreams" stuff, that pursuit is a valid answer to the above question.  I've written a post or two about goals and dreams and chasing in the past, so I won't add on here to that specific discussion.

The question persists.  Aside from cheating and behavior unbecoming of a decent human being (if there is such a thing--decency that is) how does one accomplish anything of value?  Answer:  Pay attention to the little things in life and find enjoyment in those small moments.  I like to refer to the day-to-day movements of life as the "grind."  To find pleasure in the grind means to find purpose in tasks that are as interesting as grandmother's sea shell soap that you're not allowed to use.  The mundane needs to be welcomed, not pushed away for some opportunity that never comes.  Know your routine and follow that guide daily.  In fact, create a routine that is made of building blocks.  Stack daily successes one on top of the other until those blocks have created something of beauty.

An aspiring gourmet chef must scrub pots and pans for a long while before their opportunity to inventory produce comes.  A salesman must make call after call after call (repeat) before getting that one 15 minute appointment with a potential customer.  A parent must communicate and model their expectations to their children every day for 18 plus years before sending them out into the world alone.

Seth says to "First Make Rice" and Dan interviews Josh Shipp and explains this concept in terms of breaking it down into smaller parts.  Both of these individuals I read regularly and believe you should too.  These guys are much smarter than me.

Don't wait until your desired creation emerges to enjoy it.  Love it now before it's fully formed.  Like an artist, excel in the craft of creating.  Find joy in the process.  Grind it out.  The end of a 162 game baseball season will come.  When the end arrives maybe you'll find yourself in the playoffs.

Do what you have to do today or else tomorrow won't matter.