Mentorship

Carli and I watched the repeating clips of Barry Bonds’ record breaking home with interest.  Next to our beloved Yankees, we are San Francisco Giant fans.  The Giants were the first team I supported.  From my earliest memories, highlighted by the first game I attended when I was eight or nine, I have supported the team of Willie Mays and Juan Marichel.  During the intervening years, they have never quite reached the peak they had in my youth, but hope springs eternal.
 
It will be sometime before this record is broken for a variety of reasons.  In many ways, it is a special moment for all sports fans.  In the midst of the celebrations, Carli asked a question I have pondered since.  Is Barry Bonds coachable?  Does he listen to coaches?  Is he trying to get better? 
 
Candidly, I do not know if Mr. Bonds listens to anyone.  I know there are speculators on both sides of the question.  Some believe his arrogance is so great that even if he was to try to listen he could not.  Others argue that his ability to achieve a unique achievement in the sport only came by his willingness to listen, understand, and then take his abilities to the next level.  Regardless of the facts, the question lingered in a way that made me uncomfortable.  Am I coachable?  Am I willing to listen?  Am I willing, trying to change?
 
I wonder.  I know God offers a gift freely to you and me.  God says “I teach you how to talk, word by word, and personally watch over you, even while I'm unfurling the skies, setting earth on solid foundations, and greeting Zion: ‘Welcome, my people!’”  (Isaiah 51.16)  The offer is out on the table with each day, in each moment.  It remains open, freely available yet subject to our will. 
 
Today will be interesting.  While I cannot commit to its outcome, I know the commitment of my heart.  God will be my mentor.  The Spirit will be my Guide.  Divinity will rule my life.  I will walk with Love.