A person's characteristics usually come from specific events in one's life. The event could be big or small but what really matters is the impact. February 22, 2010, my life changed in an instant. Ryan Thomas White was in a single car accident, and was killed on impact due to texting and driving. He was a teacher, friend, and most of all, a beloved coach. His way of life, care for his students and sudden death had a forever lasting impact on my life.
First, his way of life was an example for all who were around him. He managed to find the perfect balance between faith and baseball. This was true by what the preacher had to say at his funeral. The preacher spoke of Coach White's faith and commitment to God by being baptized at a young age and his knowledge of the bible. He recalls that Coach White often carried a list of baseball signals, in his bible, which was a true example of this perfect balance. The preacher's last remarks were an analogy of Coach White running the bases, and God calling him home. This was a real testimony of his life. Although he had a love for the game, his true passion came from his faith in God. Coach White lived every moment being a positive and Godly influence for his students and players.
This brings me to the next point. Coach White cared for his students and players in a way most never get to experience. It could be something as simple as a wave in the hallway, or as serious as a conversation about life; he always found a way to show he cared. Although he was a baseball coach, the softball team also had a special relationship with him. White was not only a coach but a friend and encourager. He did not just coach and encourage sports but was there for a student. I was lucky enough to experience many talks with Coach White, as were many of my classmates. The morning of Coach White's accident, I passed him in the hallway, shared a big smile and high five. I never expected that to be the last time I would...