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 "Whatever season you happen to be in right now, surrender it, own it, and always keep your eyes open for opportunities that may be right “next door.”-- Missy Grant
She had been working out regularly with the Triathlon Club at Finley (now known as the Multisport Club) and confided in trainer Rosemary Kauffmann that she was looking for an opportunity to share her love of teaching and training in a new way. She found out that Finley was looking for coaches for the Y Life Triathlon. This outreach program pairs a coach/mentor with an at-risk youth to train for a “mini” triathlon.
ENCOURAGEMENT GOES A LONG WAY
“I was amazed at the bundle of energy I discovered at the Thursday night sessions,” said Missy. “Like lighting a candle in a dark corner, the kids glowed as they received the slightest bit of love and direction! I was actually a bit sad the night of the triathlon because I did not know when or if I would see my new student triathlete again.”
Her sadness turned to surprise as she chatted with Rosemary again the next week and heard about all the Y programs that she hadn’t known existed. “She led me to Patti Bryce, Finley’s Outreach Director. I now have the privilege of working three days a week in the Y-Learning Program, where I help with homework and lead kids in fitness.”
Despite her Master’s degree, Missy says she still struggles through some of her students’ math word problems right along with them. “But I humbly assist and give thanks that I’m working with second and third graders.”
A SEASON OF WAITING
One of Missy’s favorite sayings is: “Life’s work is where the needs of the world intersect with the joys of our hearts.”
With that in mind, Missy and her husband, Patrick, have felt the call of a new adventure -- international adoption. They’ve chosen to spend their time waiting out the process doing something that they both enjoy. Their brainchild “Trails for Ticos” on Feb. 25 combines a trail race, a fun run or hike, a bike ride, pony walk and face painting in a nearby farm setting. Families can enjoy a silent auction, gourmet food, local free trade coffee and award-winning music with proceeds going towards their Cost Rican adoption fund. (“Ticos” means Costa Ricans).
In the meantime, Missy and Patrick continue to actively wait. “I remind myself that waiting builds character and perseverance, and that often, what happens inwardly while I (we) wait, is as important as what I (we) wait for! So, whatever season you happen to be in right now, surrender it, own it, and always keep your eyes open for opportunities that may be right “next door.”
To learn more about “Trails for Ticos,” visit their website.
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