I didn't think it possible, but one of my children (now 11) has an even greater passion for skiing that I have. Unreal! Yes, we had a 7 month ski season this year. I took my protege on a season ending overnight ski winter camping trip at the end of May. We had a blast.
I've been to a few Olympics now and World Championships for XC skiing. While there, I get a kick out of my friend Dale Swanson, attending to cheer on his daughter, who dresses up in every conceivable Canadian paraphpanalia possible. He's literally head to toe in all things "Canuck". I've thought, "That could be my future." While I don't think I could be as zany as Dale, I think my daughter is up to the task. She's got the unique blend of natural ability, passion for the sport, love of training and committment to personal goals (yes, I did say she was 11....we're trying to nurture her without burning out).
I think I can imagine the pride I'd feel as a parent if she made a team like that....or wow, even a medal? But a different thought encompassed me this morning. I watched a video of a missionary that gave his life to Veitnam. He told many stories of complete sacrifice so that these people, who's government was at war with his country, could hear the gospel. He also told stories about how when forced to leave temporarily because of the Veitnam war, the church he began to build continued and even flurished in his absence. When he returned he did so to a hero's welcome.
If any of my children choose a life like this I'd feel more pride than any gold medal parent could ever feel. Yes, I realize it could cost her her life. It could mean that we'd only see her every few years. We wouldn't watch our grandchildren grow up, if she was even able to find a spouse (many missionary ladies never do). To spend and expend your life for the sake of the gospel is the greatest way to spend your life. I pray almost daily that my children will impact God's kingdom in far greater ways than my life.
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