Ahhh….sleeping in your own bed is SO nice after 10 days away from home!! It’s a blast to travel, but it’s ALWAYS a pleasure to come home to your own spot in the world!
The boys, Lee and I recently spent a week a week in Tennessee with family and participated in the 2nd Annual Ken Morgan Memorial Golf Tournament. What an amazing experience! It was absolutely endearing to be among all the people who loved my dad and wanted to raise money for a college scholarship in his honor.
As I watched the men and women golfing, joking, laughing and reminiscing; I realized my dad had lived a life worth living. He left a legacy of love, joy and fellowship that not everyone who passes through this world does. Why is that and how did he get lucky?
First of all, luck had nothing to do with it. Dad’s motto was always, “We work hard and then we play hard.” In that order. He didn’t lie around waiting for his ship to come in; he jumped into the water and swam towards where the ships were sailing. Basically, he took risks, he gave 120 percent in all things and he held integrity and morals in high esteem.
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. Colossians 3:23-24
There is no doubt in my mind: Dad never took the easy road. He accepted the challenge of life in everything. He didn’t want a free ride; he wanted to make a difference.
No, he wasn’t someone famous changing the world and making it better with gazillions of dollars. However, he was a man who built up those around him and was willing to carry another’s load in their time of need. He listened, he supported and he helped more than a few.
Secondly, dad who knew was in charge. Yes, this Type A man was eager to take charge, lead the way and complete the task, but dad first consulted with his Almighty Father.
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33
Dad studied his Bible. Dad prayed. Every day, dad put his life in the hands of our Maker and it showed. He was not someone who walked around judging others; he simply led a life orchestrated by God and did his best to follow God’s lead.
Lastly, dad learned from his mistakes and kept marching forward. Dad was human and he knew it. The difference was that he didn’t let mistakes, failures or blunders keep him from trying again and again. There was no slowing down, worry or self-deprecating chatter holding him back from doing what needed to get done.
But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” James 4:6
I guess the sentence that best describes my dad is: He did.
I know “He did” as we’ve tried to get a handle on the business he left undone and we now understand how MUCH he did! I haven’t a clue where he got all this energy!!!
In fact, as I look back on dad’s life, I recognize that he indeed lived a life worth living.
Are you living a life worth living?
Some Wisdom for Today: Proverbs 28:20 – A faithful man will abound with blessings, but whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.
Well said!!! You described Daddy to a tee!! Loved seeing you, Lee & the kids at Mom’s. Lots of fun but, way toooooo short!! Thanks for sharing your gift for words!!!
love ya, H 🙂