God knows your hearts.

August 7, 2023

God knows your hearts.~ Luke 16:15b CEB

At the end of day two of high school golf team tryouts, our son Dan texted that one of the other dads had walked the course following his son’s foursome that included Ross, Dan’s son. The other dad introduced himself to Dan, and just wanted to let him know, “Ross is a great kid. Anytime anyone got their head down he stayed positive and coached them up, and that was just awesome.” Dan’s text ended this way, “That’s pretty great feedback to hear unsolicited.” Our daughter-in-law Kristie responded, “That makes tryouts a win to me. He’s already won because his heart is genuine and kind.”

Ross started playing golf a couple of years ago, and desperately wanted to make the team. Last year, as a Freshman, he got cut. But rather than giving up, he kept at it, playing as often as possible. He went out for the team again this year, and while he scores have improved, he was still on the edge in terms of making the cut. It appeared that he would get cut again this year, only to learn that the coach cut to returning golfers. The coach called Ross and invited him to play an extra round of golf as a final tryout.

That evening, Rod and I received this text message from Ross, “I made the team.” The coach said he wanted someone honest and positive and that was why he picked Ross. God knows your hearts – and apparently – so does one high school golf coach.

 A week before tryouts, Kristie drove the cart while Ross played 18 holes. A butterfly they named Charles was with them the whole day.

It’s life affirming in this difficult time of false news and “truthiness” to see character, honesty, and positive attitude honored. I whole-heartedly agree with Kristie, that tryouts was already a win. Making the team is a bonus.

And the butterfly – a sign of hope. ~ Anne