Nineteen.

I found this little nugget perusing my potentially dying computer, in attempt to delete and save some files. Originally written in March for the CAA blog, yet I don't think it was every posted. Oh well. Do enjoy:


19. That is the current tally of nicknames. The number I have had, or at least of the ones I remember. They come from every avenue of my life: youth soccer teams (Sam), college friends (Sara Sam, Straight Chizzled, Smash), or CAA internship (Chuck, Coach, Sam Truck). I think my favorite is “Sadie.” My parents named me Sara after her and our friends have both called us Sadie. I love the reminder of my sweet, outspoken, and southern accent speaking grandmother.

Although I remember much from her, I will always think of our many times laughing together. We would often be cracking up, when we probably should be sad about a situation. She would say, “it is better that we are laughing about it than crying.” Her words have marked my life. No doubt. If I were to write an autobiography, I would title it, “live it up,” thanks to her. No, I do not mean party all the time and live a crazy and fun life for myself. I mean just to live up the moment while I have it. Enjoy the time I have doing the things that I do, being around the people I am around. She taught me that early. And, I have experienced enough heartache in my short 23 years to know life is short. There is no point crying and getting frustrated about a situation (usually one that doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things), when I can just laugh and see the bright side of it.

So, choose joy. The Bible never uses the phrase, yet I find the idea written all over the pages. “Rejoice in the Lord always, again I will say rejoice” gives one instance (Philippians 4). Rejoice even in the midst of crazy life circumstances, good and bad. Whether that is in a tough marriage, a new baby on the way, frustrations with children, graduation festivities, or even losing a parent. Joy can be found in any situation. By that I mean, find it. It’s totally worth it. Sadie says do it.

I-65 chat.

Driving to work one morning this week.  And, decided I would utilize  my time well and provide a much needed study break to one of my college friends.  And, I don’t rightfully know exactly what she was referring to, but she said, “Samchok. I was reading your email, and it seems like things have calmed down for you guys.”  To which I said, “Yeah.”  Thinking in my head.  For sure.  That would be a very correct statement for NorthStar right now.  Meaning, correct.  Things indeed have slowed down.  As I am writing this though, the stack of handbooks and manuals on my desk grows taller and taller.  Literally.  This morning, another 65 pager hit my inbox.  Light reading for the off-season, eh?  But, it is good.  NorthStar-wise, things are slow.  Just had our Christmas party literally (and figuratively) wrapping everything up for the fall.  So, time to relax and recoop.  Or, in my case read and research.  But, I am so enjoying it.  Learning about a game I love to impact some kiddos with the Jesus I love.