In my younger days, naive and immature, I cared more about my men’s softball team than my oldest son’s T-Ball game. Thus, as other men were coaching and influencing my son James, I got lost in trying to relive and hold on to my youth. Learning the hard way, I realized Father Time couldn’t be beaten before I took a back seat where my children could be in the forefront.
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, Philippians 2:3.
Unfortunately, too many young men never see the light, blinded by selfish ambition. Fueled by pride, egos cause adults to remain the center of attention, long after their own high school graduation. While hanging out in bars reminiscing about the Glory Days, far too many children are growing up without a role model to emulate. Subsequently, teenagers often look toward pop culture to find meaning in life, only to be disappointed in the long run.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full, John 10:10.
After hearing the phrase “its better to give than receive” countless times throughout life, I finally tasted a piece of this fruit over the weekend. As a proud parent on Sunday, watching my children all place in the top 3 of their age group, with James earning first, 11th overall, in the 2015 Blue Hen 5K, I realized all those times I went jogging with my kids finally paid off. Although I was the only one in the family who didn’t medal, it didn’t matter. I found joy in taking a back seat to my children, observing each one begin to find their niche, place and calling in life. If you haven’t taken your seat, find one soon.
by Jay Mankus
