Football or Barbies? Grade School Memories
When I was in the seventh grade, I attended a private school. It was a smaller school – one class per grade. All students were required to wear plaid uniforms. If memory serves, I wore the pixie white shirt and yellow/blue/green plaid jumpers. Those who know me can imagine how stunning I looked in an outfit of that design. Ok, don’t fall over from laughter! I was a cute little red-headed girl in that uniform, even if I wore size ten shoes and had freckles.
As is at any school, we had recess. I loved recess and all it had to offer. After all, it was a break from the pressures of school work, nuns, and teachers.
Football memories
My fondest memory of recess was playing ball. I didn’t play just any ball, I played football, and I played with the boys. I was the girl known for having the longest throw of any girl in the school and had an even longer throw than most of the boys. The boys didn’t mind playing ball with me because I could throw and catch. I wasn’t worried about breaking a nail.
While I enjoyed recess, the other girls in the class spent their time sitting around talking and playing girl games. Some even stood against the wall of the restroom each day. Those girls were afraid of getting their hair sweaty. Anything requiring physical activity was out. The girls made fun of me and my throw, but I didn’t care. I had a great time every day.
I never recall playing with barbies much at home. As a matter of fact, I have more memories of playing kill the man with the ball in our front yard on 179th Street in North Miami, Florida. Our house was situated between 2 huge yards with luscious green grass. It was the perfect football field. Playing ball with my guy friends in the neighborhood gave me more opportunities to throw the football, hence improving my arm.
I can still throw a football pretty far today for a girl. When I led the Children’s Ministry, I had opportunities to throw the football with the boys. The memories of their faces lighting up as I threw the football the length of the gym will always be special to me. “Wow, Miss Jeanette can throw!”
We have choices
The same thing is true today. We have a choice to make when it comes to serving Jesus Christ. We can sit on the sideline fearful of breaking a good sweat or getting our hair out of place, or we can get into the game. Jesus doesn’t care if you are a man or a woman. Moreover, Jesus doesn’t require college degrees from seminaries.
Jesus is more interested in your willingness to go tell everyone who He is and what He has done for everyone. He just wants you to get into the game. He wants you to be a part of what He is doing in the lives of the people around you.
Therefore, get into the game and see how much fun you can have. I promise you it is not boring in the least, and there is always something to see and do when working for the Lord. It is a very fulfilling life, and you may or may not break a nail. If you do, don’t fret because God made them, so they grow back!
Let’s pray.
Father, I remember those days, and I smile when I think about just how far I could throw a football. I remember the looks I used to get from the girls standing against the restroom wall. Lord, I get looks now when I mention your name, but I don’t care. I have fallen in love with you, Lord Jesus, and it is exciting to serve you and do what I can to share with every what you have done for me. Lord, you have changed my life forever, and I am so thankful. I’m having the time of my life. You pulled me from the muck and mire and set my feet on steady ground. When I think of your grace, I am overwhelmed. Thanks, Lord. In your Son’s name, I pray, Amen.
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