Julie, John and I got a chance to go to a basketball game a couple of nights ago (thanks Joanie!). If you’re not a Kansas Jayhawk, I would suggest you watch the ESPN series 30 for 30 on the “Rules of Basketball. ” You will get a sense of the history of Kansas basketball and how all roads in College basketball either lead from or to Lawrence Kansas.
There is something about tradition that deeply resonates with me. It’s probably why I majored in history in college and taught high school history for over eight years. It’s also why I was attracted to Anglicanism (the Episcopal Church). I felt the weight of history in the Church, knowing that its roots stretch back to the early church. There is something both comforting and challenging knowing that I am connected to so many who came so long ago and to a Church that has not always been at its best. Yet the practice and worship of the Episcopal Church did not simply begin because someone got mad over a doctrinal issue and decided to start something new. It’s rootedness has stood the test of time, controversy and dispute. That speaks to me.
As I took in the great scene of Phog Allen Fieldhouse, I was reminded the first time I entered that grand old building as someone fresh off the farm (or at least fresh out of a small town). I thought of the people I knew then. I remembered the first time Julie and I were in that building together, wondering what happened to that person who saw us to together. It was pretty scandalous, but I’ll save that story for another time. I remembered sitting on the floor with Joseph, and laughing as his phone exploded with texts like “dude, I see you on national television.” I felt connected to times gone past and yet still connected to the present.
My life has been blessed in that way. I am so grateful for the hard work and support of so many that have walked with me and given me so much. I am blessed to be connected to a community of people, through the miles and through the years, that have enhanced my life in immeasurable ways. Do you ever pause just simply to sit in amazement of how many people have blessed you, challenged you, and supported you? I know Thanksgiving has come and gone for the year. Yet I find that if I can just sit and pause for a moment, I cannot help but to be thankful for all of you. Even for those who taught me patience. For after all, relationships make a difference, even when they are full of controversy and dispute. It was those relationships that taught me about resilience, patience and that ultimately we are called to faithfulness, even when you might have to stand alone.
As far as the basketball game, we did win, so that helps! But if you didn’t know, we usually do. But I am also thankful for Memorial Stadium where I have learned about resilience and faithfulness. Isn’t that a lot like life?
Until next time,
DP