NBA superstar, Allen Iverson, has decided to take an
indefinite leave of absence from the the Memphis Grizzlies after Thursday's (Nov 5th) "L". We are all familiar with the dominating ability in which A.I. has been blessed. The recipient of various accolades such as Rookie of the year, MVP, and numerous All-Star appearances, but he has yet to achieve the ultimate goal, an NBA championship. With all that being said, it is safe to say that Allen Iverson is a well renowned and blessed player.
Ok, I completely understand how he is feeling. I have been a part of a losing franchise as well, and believe me, it is not fun. You work so hard, approach every moment with a positive attitude, and expect rewards to come from that... just to fall short and forced to endure disappointment.
From the things that I have learned thus far, I feel comfortable saying that I believe Allen Iverson is not making the right choice. It is easy to become selfish and at times we may feel things are not going to our plans. But what we fail to realize is that its never about our plans, but about God's plans. Allen isn't looking at the fact that he is impacting the people around him. He has younger players on his team and guys that look up to him as a standard for the sport. Sometimes you have to look outside of the box and see what your purpose is. What is Allen Iverson's purpose? I dont know, only God knows. But what I can tell you is that he needs to be out there, lead by example, play his best regardless of the outcome, be a support to his fellow teammates, and those that are watching him. Especially the children who look up to A.I.
So the bottom line here is that, no matter what our struggles may be, we must look at the bigger picture. Why am I here? Who am I here for? What can I do to make it better?
Reading the latest news on Allen Iverson, really made me look at my own bigger picture. It just gives me further understanding that it's not
about me, but about the impact that I may have for those
whose eyes are on me. So through all the losses, the struggles, the physical and mental pain, I will always keep me head up and trust in God.
"Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him." - Job 13:15
I came across this poem last week and it is quite intriguing. It had an instant connection with my spirit, and confirmed things in which I struggle with... MUSIC. I am an avid listener of Jazz, Rhythm & Blues, Gospel, and Rap. Actually, I should have listed rap first, it being the primary genre synced into my iPod. The melody of rap music is the heart beat to why I struggle. Trying my best to hone in on the sound alone not realizing that my spirit is slowly being contaminated with filthy content. I believe that God is the creator of ALL things...including music, but some of these messages that are being produced are clearly not of Him. The world has a way of taking things and perverting them, and rap music is one of those things. Some rap music has a tendency of celebrating sin, and honoring unrighteousness. This is something I wanted to look further into, and as with all things in life we should refer to the Bible for guidance and direction. Speaking with my Pastor and family about this topic, we were able to compile a few scriptures that gave insight on this issue. The ones that stood out the most to me were:
