| But during my senior year at the University of Arizona, I realized that even though I had accepted Jesus as my Savior as a little girl, I had never made Him Lord of my life.
To be honest, softball had become my God. I had excelled at every level in the sport, becoming an All-American right fielder as well as an Academic All-American my sophomore through senior seasons in college. Then in 1996, I played on the U.S. women's gold medal softball team.
When I returned for my senior season at Arizona after winning the gold medal in the Olympics, I still wasn't completely happy despite all my success on the softball field and in the classroom. That's when God told me, "Give me everything and I am going to show you what I have for you."
My life took a complete turn when I became sold out to God's will for my life. It was at that point that I realized that I couldn't be truly happy unless I dedicated everything in my life to pleasing God. When I took my focus off myself and placed it on God, I discovered an inner peace and joy that has lasted through the good times as well as the bad.
Now, my ultimate goal is to be completely committed to what God desires for my life by honoring Him wherever I am and in whatever I'm doing. For now, that means representing the United States on the 2000 Olympics women's softball team. As I prepare this time, however, I know that God has put me on this earth for something more than softball or a gold medal.
When one of my college friends died in 1997, I resolved in my heart to do all that I can do to tell others about Jesus Christ's gift of eternal life. Because of what Jesus did for me in providing a way to Heaven, I seek to obey Him wholeheartedly while not holding onto anything that might prevent me from living for Him.
For those seeking joy that carries you through life's victories and defeats, just get right with God. Give Him your life and He will change you.
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