I had cataract surgery a few months ago and since then have had some continuing issues with blurred vision in one eye. Perhaps that is why I have been rooting for Tommy Pham, an outfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals. Pham has a rare degenerative eye condition that makes his vision blurry. Now, when my vision is a little blurry it means I can’t read the words on my computer, but imagine trying to hit a 98-mph fastball when your vision isn’t perfect. Pham’s entire baseball career is a great underdog story. He was drafted in the 16th round by the Cardinals and has been in their minor-league system for 12 years. He is 29 and was probably close to giving up his dream of playing in the majors. Uber drivers and grocery store clerks make as much or more than minor league baseball players. This season he was the last player to be cut coming out of spring training. He could have just quit but instead played well enough in the minors to make sure he was the first player called up to the “Show” when there was an injury. That happened in May and Pham has made the most of his opportunity. He has been the Cardinal’s top hitter in a season where St. Louis is making a late season push for the playoffs. But it was never easy.
Pham’s eye condition has left him legally blind in his left eye. He relies on special contacts to correct his vision so he can see that fastball. If the contacts aren’t exactly right it can be the difference between a home run and a strikeout. Before every game, he looks around the outfield to see if the he can read the massive billboard signs. If they are clear then he is good…if not, then he goes back to his locker to get another pair of contacts. When Tommy Pham was asked, what kept him chasing his dream…. he said, “I would regret quitting on my ability before I made it to the majors.” Clearly, as his vision has failed, his focus has never wavered.
I believe God sometimes gives us new eyes to see. In other words, He gives us a new vision for our lives. Following the path where that new vision takes us can be daunting…even scary. But as Teddy Roosevelt reminds us, the credit goes to those of us who dare to get into the arena and try. We may have success or we may not, but at least if we try we will have failed while daring greatly.
Rev. Dave Poteet, Pastor of Congregational Care
