Knowing True Balance

Knowing True Balance

“Because of his grace he declared us righteous and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.” This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone. Titus 3:7-8

After sixteen years in the major leagues, Yankee pitcher Andy Pettitte retired in early 2011. He had talked about the 2010 season possibly being his last and spent much of the winter wrestling with the decision.

Andy and I spoke about it at length because he was struggling with many of the same things I had been during my career—striking the appropriate balance between work and family.

First, he really loves pitching. What a great place in life, to do what you love. Second, he’s had remarkable success: the most postseason wins in baseball history, never having a win-loss record lower than .500 during his career. And his 2010 season ranked the highest winning percentage by a pitcher in the final year of his career (minimum twenty starts).

Over his career, God gave Andy quite a platform, as millions watched every move he made on the field. His contribution to the Yankees was significant, and I’m sure they thought he should pitch as long as he could.

I’m not so sure. There is no doubt that God wants us to use the platform we’ve been given, and we are to develop that platform in a way that impacts others for Christ.

At the same time, Andy has teenage children who will be going out into the world soon to impact others with their own platforms, whatever those may be. And they need their dad as they find their way.

Sometimes the size of our platform isn’t what matters—it’s the quality of it.

Uncommon Key > Sometimes striking the appropriate balance between work and family is a difficult decision, such as changing jobs. More often, however, it’s achieved with small changes, like having lunch with your kids at school or being intentional about spending time with a friend, spouse, or child. Don’t measure your platform by its size, but by its depth and impact.