Designated to Triple-A

As I was sitting in my hotel room on Wednesday night, I came across some articles online with quotes from me earlier that day explaining my reaction to being designated back to Triple-A. The quotes (some misquoted) seemed lacking of any real substance and gave no definition whatsoever to how I was feeling at that moment. Perhaps, I am to blame for the way I apparently came off but often times a reporter is simply looking to get a quick story from someone rather than getting someone's story. I, myself, am more interested in people's stories rather than simple stories about people. That being said, here is the real answer to how I felt upon hearing about my designation. I'm sharing because I find it worth sharing.

To simply say that I was disappointed would be a pretty significant understatement. I held back tears the best that I could as I explained what had just happened to two of my teammates waiting for me as I returned to my locker to pack my things. I was discouraged at the thought of calling my wife and informing her of our upcoming descent on this roller-coaster ride of professional baseball. I hated and feared the sadness that might be felt by my friends and family back home who were so proud to see me in that big league uniform. This was supposed to be my year. I felt like a failure. From sitting in that office hearing the news, to packing my things in the clubhouse, to laying in bed that night in my hotel room, I had so many questions that I wanted an answer to and so many thoughts streaming through my mind. However, for some reason, and to my surprise, all of these thoughts and questions seemed to be faint echoes buried deep in the back of my mind. I could barely hear them on account of a much bigger Voice making its presence known. A Voice telling me that "everything is going to be alright", "I've got plans for you, and you are going right where I want you". I knew who it was and I was so grateful to feel God's presence. Immediately, I felt the peace of God which transcends all understanding guarding my heart and mind. I felt strength that I didn't know I had and that is why I felt the truth should be heard.

Praise God my Father in heaven for moments of adversity because it is in these moments in which I get to tap into that extra strength that only God can provide. God's grace is sufficient for me and His power is made known through times of weakness. That is why the apostle Paul claimed that he delighted in times of weakness because when he was weak, he felt a strength that only God could provide. Praise God for days like Wednesday because it is on days such as these that I get to fly my flag of faith which glorifies my God in heaven which is my purpose here on earth anyway. So I stand today comforted by a God in heaven who cares for me and loves me unconditionally. A love that was clearly displayed through the sacrifice of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on that cross to save me from sin and death and lead me onto righteousness and life. Baseball promotions and demotions don't define me. So whether it be from the tallest mountain or the deepest valley, I will continue to shout praises to my King.

May God be glorified,

- Terry