This past Saturday was the opening day of Miracle League of Chattanooga. This has been a dream for some time for so many. The amount of work and effort that has been invested into this terrific organization was seen Saturday. Volunteers came from everywhere, players showed up, YMCA leaders, Miracle League board, school board members, elected officials, law enforcement, fire department, news outlets, and so many more I know I’m forgetting. It was perfect weather for these players.
I encourage you to come watch a game, it will change your life and most certainly make you believe in miracles again. These adults and children know no limits. The day started with a ribbon cutting, opening speeches, and the National Anthem was sung by Orange Grove chorus. We also had prayer and the tears flowed because we were missing two of the biggest reasons this field ever happened. Bob Nolan and Patrick Sharrock were driving forces behind this field of dreams. This season is dedicated to Patrick.
I was standing beside Cindy Sharrock, Patrick's mom, and we both were saying what a beautiful day it was. Then we both saw the most beautiful cloud with little wisps that looked like wings coming from it. Bob and Patrick were surely watching over “their” field.
I watched children in wheelchairs, leg braces, on walkers, children with Autism, cancer, blindness, deaf, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, birth defects and many other disabilities. But one thing struck me - they don’t “see” their disabilities, they see abilities. Their smiles went from ear to ear , they were laughing out loud, they were having fun. Watching these precious adults and children play ball was just catching a glimpse of God and all He has in store for us in heaven.
Thank you everyone for making this field happen.
Stephanie Maxwell Norris