We Are F-A-M-I-L-Y!
Friday, October 3, 2025
"Awards become corroded, friends gather no dust." – Jesse Owens
In no way, shape, or form does my athletic career compare to that of Jesse Owens, who dominated the 1936 Olympics in Berlin by winning four track and field gold medals. Known as the “Buckeye Bullet”, Owens finished first in the 100 meters, long jump, 200 meters, and 4 × 100-meter relay. Along the way, he single-handedly crushed Adolf Hitler’s myth of Aryan supremacy.
By comparison, I won an MVP award in baseball when I was 12, and two MVP awards during my 24-year softball career. I was also named to multiple All-Star teams and was the charter member of The Saints Prison Ministry Hall of Fame, circa 2011.
Small potatoes, I know, especially compared to Jesse Owens far greater accomplishments. However, there is one thing that Jesse and I have in common.
Last Sunday, Deanna hosted an early birthday party for me at our house. Not only did she cook my favorite meal, spaghetti, but she made a big batch of her homemade sauce as well as a delicious butterscotch dessert. She also planned some interactive games for our guests to play, which was a lot of fun.
Best of all, I was surrounded by the people who mean the most to me. My son Chris and his lovely wife Rachael were away on vacation, but Bethany and Matt were both there with their families, including all six of our precious grandkids. Deanna had also invited a few people from our church to join us… and as I gazed around the room, my eyes filled with tears to see how very blessed I am at this stage of my life.
Yes, Jesse, it’s true. Awards – whether they be athletic, academic, or vocational – are temporal at best. However, family and friends are the gifts that keep on giving.
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs 17:17 (BSB)
- Rev. Dale M. Glading, President
