Well, it has yet been another month plus since our last blog. Shucks. I really want to try to keep this thing up to date! The truth is, life is busy and by the end of the day, all we want to do is veg. But I am thankful for this avenue to share important events with our beloved friends and family across the globe.
I asked Steve about 100 times to write a letter to everyone explaining the most recent changes that our family has incurred. Steve, being Steve, insists that this news is no news and that there are much bigger and more important things to worry about than his career journey. Well, he's right. So, in a modest, humble, and meek manner - which totally embodies the character of my amazing husband - we want to announce Steve's official retirement from professional football.
After much prayer, late night conversations, and advice from the wisest friends and family we know, we have much peace about this decision. Now, I have convinced him to write a little something....
Since I can remember, I dreamed to become a professional football player. Football has been a defining factor in my life since I could walk - with both of my brothers paving the way. I owe much to this sport - character values such as discipline and perseverance, genuine friends whom I consider family, and a college education from one of the best universities in the nation to name a few. Through the grace and provision of Jesus Christ, I was able to achieve my childhood dream. Getting drafted and being able to play in the NFL was incredible. For some reason, God blessed me with this rare and special opportunity that so many boys aspire to achieve. I was able to give my family a very stable beginning through the funds that professional football afforded me. Of course I did not picture my professional football career to unfold or end as soon as it has. But I know that I have given my absolute all to this journey, and I do not regret one thing. Words can't describe how thankful I am to everyone who helped me become the best football player I could be - my parents, my bothers, Aunt Denise and Uncle John, Grandpop, Tasso Kiriakes, the Jowers family, Matt Jones, Billy Gahagen, Steed Lobotske, Jim Grobe, Deryk Gilmore, Mike McCartney, Tony Dungy, and my beautiful wife, Lindsey Justice. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to all of you who have supported, encouraged, and walked with me along the way.
I have struggled mightily to make this decision - but after two back injuries and not wanting to leave my family any longer - I know that it is time. If I am honest, my pride has been my main enemy in this process. But God used this to bring me closer to Himself - to bring me to my knees - and I know now, in my heart and not just my head, that football does not define me. Jesus defines me, and He is all I need. I am confident that the Lord has a wonderful plan for our family. I want to follow His plan, no matter the cost. Solomon tells us in Ecclesiastes that there is a time and a place for everything. While my football days are over, there is a time for something new tomorrow, if I am blessed with a tomorrow. My prayer is that we live each day as if it were our last - seeking to further God's kingdom on this earth and giving Him the glory in it all.
-Steve
I don't want to get mushy, or over dramatic, because I don't need to affirm my husband over the internet ;-). But words cannot express how proud I am of him. Every girl deserves a man like Steve - someone who loves Jesus and who leads his family in His Way. Thank you for being who you are - I cherish each day I have to spend with you as my best friend.
On another note, life is good! Hannah is walking all over the place and LOVES books. We recently visited Nana and Papa in Dallas. Steve stayed in Charlotte to work, so it was just me and baby flying to the big D. We had an amazing time seeing all of our friends and family - and of course we indulged in some delicious comida! We were able to celebrate Razi's law school graduation, visit Mamaw and Norm, and run in a 5K supporting brain cancer research. It was a fantastic trip and I will post some more highlight pics in the next post.
Our business is busier than ever - we had 50 sessions this past week. Amazing. Steve just passed his CPAT (firefighting physical test) with flying colors. The next step in the process involves a polygraph test and panel interview. He is not sure, but thinks that will happen sometime in July.
Below you will find picture show celebration of Steve's football journey. What an amazing ride! Thank you God!
