A friend had offered this ticket a month ago. My body was tired, but a surprise family visit boosted my energy. Several family moments had already made for a marvelous weekend. God knows I couldn’t hike a trail or visit a National Park. BUT this hometown park is still a win! Memories of the game two weeks ago still marinated. I was “good to go.” Talk about a miracle in the making!
Fans left as early as the 7th inning; we were down by 8 (11-3). By the 9th inning, both teams had scored, and it was still an 8-run deficit (14-6). “C’mon Los Cardinales! You can do this! We only need 9 to win it, boys!”
The remaining fan base was small but mighty. The sun continued to beam as the energy grew. A walk. Then another walk. And then another one. AND AGAIN. A run scored. A double and two more runs. A stolen base. Another walk and a run. An RBI and two runs. Things were happening fast-I could hardly keep up! Is your head spinning? Another run! Wait, another! The miracle was transforming before my eyes. Laughter, cheers, and energy could have propelled a rocket! We won! The final score was 15-14. Our group started high-fiving and laughing. Can you imagine? Keep this in mind—8 of the 9 runs were scored with TWO OUTS…in the LAST INNING. Talk about “one for the books!”
Haven’t we all felt this way at one time: Just when you think, with two outs in the last inning, you’ve lost, miracles still happen.
There have been many times, particularly in the last 10 years, when I didn’t want to participate in the game. It wasn’t because I didn’t have wonderful teammates or fans. The competition was fierce and I felt weak. Finding my position wasn’t easy. Cheering for others in the stands was much easier than being on a coaching team. As a coach, you’re judged for everything. When in the game, I need positive players around me. Yes, there are times when positivity will strike out. In my experience, it’s the attitude that wins. My game plan has changed so much. Like I’ve written before, I’m listening to my ULTIMATE favorite and amazing Coach. Others, out of fear, may wish you not to participate (so you don’t get hurt). Injuries will happen, though. Through these shifts and new lessons, I’ve held on to the possibility of miracles. Wins or losses I still have lessons. Through a team effort, miracles have happened to me. I think of the 4 players who “walked”. They scored without ever having to strike a ball with their bat. It happens. But I doubt these guys will be allowed to stop practicing their swing!
Whether you’re a player or a spectator, do you believe in miracles? Do you feel you have what it takes to win? You might think you’re in the last inning, with two outs, without hope and a prayer. May you find victory—whether big or small. As for me, I believe.
Fast fact: The Springfield Cardinals is a Double-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals (we compete in the Texas League North Division).
Have faith 💚
Have you heard of NET, yet?🦓
Last Monday I received news about a miracle—being a surgical candidate. I want to thank my friends and family for their prayers and patience. Preparing for this takes prayer, healthy habits, and also, like I hope we all try to do, participation in that which you love. My focus has to remain on my children and grandchildren. When I know more about specifics, I’ll be sure to inform you!
I’m not on social media and I don’t wish for my website/blog to become like F.B.; however, this is the best way for me to communicate. This place is intended for me to grow and practice my writing, follow other writers, and hopefully, achieve goals (including trying to publish again). I’ve created a healthy schedule for myself during the week which is going to limit the calls and texts to which I can respond. Thank you for your understanding.
We all must establish healthy routines that are good for the plans that God has for us. I hope you are! Our game plans may not always match, but you must follow the plan God has for YOU. Honor it, respect it, and follow it. Undoubtedly, you will be blessed. I’m going to keep my “head in the game” and my heart and soul in good communion with Christ. I will use this area to update my “team”. As you pray for me, I will for you. I’m excited to see how the miracles will unfold. It’s in the really SMALL things, too. May you see them at work in your life. With love, Karla
Flannel with Faith 
You must be logged in to post a comment.