written by john c Ashworth
I spent just about all day today pondering a meaningful way to express my respect for my own Dad, and devoted Dads everywhere.
And I happened to have some time this afternoon to begin digging in to some of the old memorabilia my Mom dropped here last month. Some really great stuff. Thanks for keeping this stuff safe all these years, Mom! 🙂
I believe my own patience and my Mom's efforts have led me this evening to an inspiring insight for all of us...
The picture I shared above (and below) represents some of the years of hard work that went into my career as a youth soccer player. A pinnacle time of development for me as a young athlete and a young man.
Of course both my parents provided vital support during this time. Especially my Dad, who booked a lot of miles driving me where I needed to be and who helped shape my incredibly successful soccer career in very important ways.
The medals you see in the photo represent a second place and fourth place finish in the DJ Niotis National Championship in two consecutive years as an Under 16 center forward for the San Diego Nomads.
The older photo of me along with the team photo for Mr. G's pizza are much older and grant a quick glimpse of the commitment to playing the game that was solidified long before those national championships were ever played.
My Dad led the way as a Coach, president of the Pacific Youth Soccer League and my own personal guide on my quest to develop my full potential as a player learning to harness his unique gifts.
I was thinking today that my father's commitment to me as his son in this arena has led me to many great things in my life, including my own serendipitous journey into fatherhood.
A journey that is not always smooth but is always filled with a poignant sense of truth, legacy and love that only a true Dad can understand.
Happy Father's Day Dad, and to all the brotherhood who stand tall at this gateway, and commit to the heartache and exaltation that demand everything from you along the way.
Godspeed to all of you...
-John
