Hall Of Fame

Dear Springdale Nazarene Hall-Of-Fame Board Members,

My husband may never be nominated nor will you look at the stat. books and think that his "numbers" qualify him for your prestigious award.

Springdale National Softball Hall of Fame. A pretty neat award given to whom? The sluggers? The MVPs? The studs on the winning teams? That's not who my husband is so you will brush over the wins and loses, the strikeouts, the RBIs and all of the other qualifications that you scan to elect another member to The Hall. Oh, I know that he will never be chosen because of statistics but Ryan would be an incredible addition to your Hall.


Let me make my case.

Ryan. He's 6'7". Pitcher. Leader. You would think with that size and playing in that position he would be the loudest, most verbal on the team. You would think that he would use his voice, his stature, to lead the team. He doesn't. Ryan uses his head. He uses his gentleness and calmness to lead this team. He doesn't need to scream to get his teammates fired up. Instead, they look at his quiet demeanor and his unspeakable leadership and the team continues to trod through the tough games with the gentle giant on the mound.

Ryan. He is an encourager, a prayer warrior, a leader, a follower, a humble man that would blush even if he knew I was writing this blog post. He has seen his share of teams and positions. He never argues a call, even though he may question a ball or a strike...just to make sure that the next pitch is right on the mark. He is a steady hitter, knowing that at one time he was expected to hit home runs, now it's singles. Just get on base, advance the runner and let your big guns drive you home.

Off the field? Off the field he is an AMAZING husband. Easy to write about him, easy to dote on him. He treats me as he is called to do..."Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her..." He calls me beautiful. He encourages me daily. He puts my needs in front of his own. He has made my life more than I ever thought it would be. He is a great husband.

He is an AMAZING father. He chooses to spend time with the kids. He makes them laugh. He makes them feel that their opinions matter. He doesn't belittle them nor does he embarrass them. He disciplines them when it is needed and PRAISES them at all times. He is a great Dad.

He has goals. He has aspirations. He works hard to stay healthy and strong. None would doubt his Faith in Jesus. His WWJD bracelet is not just a fad for him, it's his daily question. What would Jesus do in this situation? Or that situation? How do I handle my job, my family, my sports, my life? What Would Jesus Do? He prays and listens and is obedient in every facet of his life.

Ryan. Yes, you may just brush over him without a second thought. But his characteristics, his abilities, and his talents more than qualify him for The Hall of Fame.

Thank You for your time.

From His biggest cheerleader and fan...his wife!