Ethan Chapman’s dream to make it to the Big League level hasn’t happened yet. This past winter, Ethan signed to play 2017 in the Mexican League (AAA level) with the Vaqueros Union Laguna club.
Off the field, he’s a husband and a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. His faith is at the center of who he is as a person.
Today is the seventh of a season-long diary that Ethan is going to share with us as he continues his battle through minor league baseball and his quest to make it to the Big Leagues.
My identity is found in Christ!
Growing up having a passion about playing sports and being blessed enough to pursue those passions as my profession, has made it difficult to see myself as anything else beyond an athlete.
Most people define themselves by what they do for a living. The ball player, the cop, the nurse or the school teacher. The problem with that is that the job we do is temporary and can never truly fulfill us. I will not be a baseball player forever, I will have bad games, disappoint myself and others with how I play. I can’t let those moments within my job define me.
I’ve heard countless stories of baseball players who are done playing, and are struggling to find self worth. Their whole life they were known by the way they played the game. They never had to find any value in other aspects of their lives.
Our self worth isn’t in what we do but is found in Christ. Once my career is over and if I’m lucky enough to have grandkids they will hear stories about me playing professional baseball but they won’t matter because to them, I’ll simply be grandpa.
We put so much value into things that don’t deserve it.
Baseball is amazing and I love it but it shouldn’t be where I find my value.
Our relationship with Christ is what defines us.
Remember, you are more than your job, don’t let it define you.
E. Chapman
Impact People
Ethan Chapman getting ready for an at-bat. (Photo Courtesy: Ethan Chapman)
Through 53 games with Vaqueros Union Laguna in the Mexican League, Ethan is batting .272 with 4 HR, 18 RBI, 33 Runs Scored, and 14 Stolen Bases.
To read Ethan’s previous journal entries from this season, click here.
