Nelson Cook who established Coaches of Influence (COIN) 30 years ago in Los Angeles USA writes a monthly letter to the many coaches at professional, college and high school levels and the current correspondence touches the spot.
It has been my privilege since 1984 to have been hosted innumerable times by Nelson Cook in my years in sport ministry, the most recent was in 2009 where I addressed coaches over breakfasts, lunches and dinners.
In a recent Nelson Cook newsletter to his coaches he wrote and this is a Good Friday message:
Years ago I shared this true story by Tim Kimmel and am moved by it again. It reflects what JESUS does to us when we make Him LORD of our lives.
Parents and children
Hebrews 10:24: Let us consider HOW to stimulate one another to good deeds ...
Kevin Leman has written many books on the family and raising great kids. Here are his 10 Commandments for Parents. Remember, children are a gift of the Lord.
TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR PARENTS
- My hands are small; please don't expect perfection whenever I make a bed, draw a picture, or throw a ball. My legs are short; slow down so that I can keep up with you.
- My eyes have not seen the world as yours have; let me explore it safely; don't restrict me unnecessarily.
- Housework will always be there; I'm little only for a short time. Take time to explain things to me about this wonderful world, and do so willingly.
- My feelings are tender; don't nag me all day long (you would not want to be nagged for your inquisitiveness). Treat me as you would like to be treated.
- I am a special gift from God; treasure me as God intended you to do - holding me accountable for my actions, giving me guidelines to live by, and disciplining me in a loving manner.
- I need your encouragement (but not your empty praise) to grow. Go easy on the criticism; remember, you can criticise the things I do without criticising me.
- Give me the freedom to make decisions concerning myself. Permit me to fail, so that I can learn from my mistakes. Then someday I'll be prepared to make the decision life will require of me.
- Don't do things over for me; that makes me feel that my efforts didn't measure up to your expectations. I know it's hard, bit don't compare me with my brother or my sister.
- Don't be afraid to leave for a weekend together. Kids need vacations from parents, and parents need vacations from kids. Besides, it's a great way to show us kids that your marriage is something special.
- Take me to Sunday school and church regularly, setting a good example for me to follow. I enjoy learning more about God.
- Kevin Leman
Onward and Upward,
Nelson
Dr Mark Tronson is a Baptist minister (retired) who served as the Australian cricket team chaplain for 17 years (2000 ret) and established Life After Cricket in 2001. He was recognised by the Olympic Ministry Medal in 2009 presented by Carl Lewis Olympian of the Century. He mentors young writers and has written 24 books, and enjoys writing. He is married to Delma, with four adult children and grand-children.
Mark Tronson's archive of articles can be viewed at http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/mark-tronson.html