For many reasons, a la baskin robbins ice cream flavors, I've been fortunate in my life to rely on great men and women. Saying that I've made my way standing on the shoulders of giants (made famous by Hawkings) falls short.
Some of my giants are now physically stooped by aged, spirits bright - others, it feels, are throwing in the towel (see Rocky III).
I stood in the parking lot at the 77th Avenue Building with Darin sharing with him the luxury of looking to our elders when times get rough or confusing.
I sat in Will's living room, talking about the incalculable value of having someone to turn to in times of trouble and doubt.
As time moves on wings of lightning I begin to consider my own ability to accept the fact that as one generation passes, another must accept the responsibility of leading, being there, answering the call, doing what must be done.
There's that space in a 400m relay where the legs must pass the baton, carefully and deliberately. Too many steps, a fumbled transition, miscues might all contribute to a drop or a dq. Coach Manown and Coach Martin used to make us walk around in a 4-person column practicing our transition, practice after practice, to make sure we got it right - muscle memory right.
All of life's struggles prepare us for this I suppose - without us even knowing. I assure you, running at full speed, I don't feel prepared to take a hand-off. I am comforted by Tim's quiet assurance. Will's ethic and James' dreams add a rich perspective. I take my station beside my wife and defer to Shawn with love and admiration.
Will Eli arrive at the same place I am now, after all that I have tried to teach him, only to discover it as I did for the very first time? Probably. And I hope he is as blessed as I by the presence of his brothers and sisters, cousins and friends - looking forward with a perfect brightness of hope.
With deep respect and admiration for those who died on December 7, 1941, at the bombing of Pearl Harbor...
I remain,
JMS
4 comments:
really lovely, jarret. we missed you guys at thanksgiving.
Brother Sharp, I admire you. I really enjoy reading your blog. keep doing what you're doing. :)
Miriam.
Miriam - my favorite Miriam in all the world. What a great surprise! Love seeing you here!
Thank you so much! I will press onward Christian Soldier!
The seasons of life have made us all baton carriers at one point or another. Right now it's our turn - sometimes it is heavy, but I don't want to pass it on yet. The thrill of the race keeps us going - and being on the track rather than in the stands is what makes it so splendid to be the bearer of the baton! The thing that is most amazing about this race we are in is that when it is our turn, our Father in Heaven bouys us up and is our biggest cheerleader. Go Jarret! I'm just glad we are on the same team.
Now, as for Eli - he couldn't ask for a more capable or better coach than his dad. I know when it's his turn, he will take that baton and run like the wind!
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