Rick Patrick
Columnist
Those of you who are frequent participants in our weekly visits know that I have had an ongoing challenge of trying to get into better shape. For the last couple of years, I have had the desire to get into a shape other than round. For several months, I have been rather diligent about making my way to the gym. I make every effort to get there three times a week, although some weeks are more successful in that endeavor than others.
Those of you who are followers of our weekly visits also know that I wear a brace on my left leg. The brace is part of the after effects of what I proudly call, "an old football injury." For the benefit of any newcomers, in November of 2019, I was covering a football game on the sidelines. As I was snapping photos, the action on the field decided to make its way off the field and onto my left ankle. Although I did not hear it, there have been those who told me they could hear the bones snap as I took an unintentional tumble with a pair of young football players. Now, nearly six years and three surgeries later, I still wear a brace in order to ease the task of walking.
While I was at the gym this past Saturday, I was making my way to the water fountain, when two young men noticed me and the brace and stopped me asking for permission to pray for me. I had never met either of these two young men before. After exchanging cordial introductions, one of the young men proceeded to tell me that he'd received a revelation earlier in the day that he would meet someone and that he was to pray for them. He told me when he saw my brace, he was convinced that I was to be the object of his divine instructions. Not one to turn down the chance at divine assistance, I agreed and we had prayer right there in front of the water fountain. Before the two went on their way, the one young man smiled and said, "Your leg is healed."
I admit that since that moment, my leg doesn't feel much different, but I have a feeling this encounter had little to do with my leg. This encounter had much more to do with the spiritual heart than any physical extremity. Although I continue to wear the brace, my leg is really not that bad. Sure it gets a little stiff and my ankle seems to be a more accurate weather prognosticator than anyone on The Weather Channel, I am blessed to be able to move around fairly well. I doubt I will be running along the beach anytime, but that's okay.
This encounter did much to bolster my faith in many young people. I encountered two young men with faith bold enough to approach a complete stranger and offer help the best way they knew. My leg may still be the same, but my heart is much better for the experience. I hope you heart is well as we make it on the Sunny Side.