Sometimes life throws curveballs.
In 2005, the same year as his 20th wedding anniversary, Adam filed for and was granted disability.
“When people ask me what I’m thankful for, I always say disability. Through it I’ve found my calling to serve others and give back to the community.”
I have been going to church with Adam for almost three years and had no idea this was a part of his story. I’d seen his pictures from going to watch the Washington Nationals play in D.C. on opening weekend a couple years ago.
“My daughter lives and works in D.C. We’re planning on going to see her at the end of the month.”
I’ve watched him grow out his mustache for the annual natural mustache and beard growing competition. Once again, I will not be entering.
I also knew he served at C-Street Connect, a local food pantry.
“We serve around 300 people each month. I’m just the numbers guy, making sure everyone waits their turn and knows where to go when they’re called.”
Adam’s been volunteering at C-Street Connect for close to five years. Before C-Street, it was the Salvation Army, and Grand Oaks Mission before that.
We met at Crimson House, the church that hosts C-Street Connect, for the game of catch in a dandelion-filled field that greatly resembles my backyard.
“Oh man. It’s been at least five years since I’ve played catch. I remember practicing for a church league softball team and jammed my finger at our first practice and that was it.”
He brought his glove from high school, a beautiful Reggie Jackson signature model Rawlings.
“I thought this would be fun to use.”
The son of a minister, Adam grew up playing ball with the neighborhood kids, much like the movie The Sandlot.
“We had fans of everyone playing together. Back then, I was a Yankees fan.”
I laughed and rolled my eyes.
“I was a vendor for the Ozark Mountain Ducks, too. Lotta walking, but a good time at the ballpark.”
Every time I hear someone was a vendor at a stadium, I think of the “Lemonade, WOOOOOO!” man from Kauffman Stadium who made it into a video game.
Adam thought a game of catch sounded fun and reached out to me a couple of weeks ago saying he’d like to get on the calendar. Because he did so, I learned more of his story and was inspired by his perspective of calling and opportunity.
When life throws curveballs, keep on swinging.
Side note: Today’s game of catch sponsored by ibuprofen, Dayquil, and Dr Pepper.
