II Peter 3:18
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Sunday, Olivia’s basketball team went to Lexington to watch the University of Kentucky’s girls’ team play Mississippi State! (Thank you, Ernie, for the autograph time with the team afterwards!)
While standing in line at the concession stand, we couldn’t help but notice the very tall man ahead of us!
We found out later that his name was Melvin Turpin, and that he was a former player from UK who was half of the powerful “Twin Towers” in his day! As he strolled through the crowd, people would randomly stop him for autographs and/or pictures! He was precious to watch, and I couldn’t resist rounding up some of our girls at one point and setting out to have their picture made. Mr. Turpin was very gracious as the girls all gathered around him.
When the game was over, Tim and I went out to eat with our friends Pam and Ernie and what do you know! Mr. Turpin was in the same restaurant!
I looked at Tim and said, “I just have to have my picture made with him!” There was just something about this man that I adored!
I don’t think it was his heighth although it was impressive.
I don’t think it was his smile although I thought it was priceless.
I think it was the joy I saw him display as he shared himself with so many strangers!
And the fact that he didn’t ask for anything in return!
I truly think he loves coming to the UK games to watch them, but I also think he loves coming to make so many people happy! He is part of UK’s history, yet he doesn’t expect payment for his time or talent. He just simply gives for the pleasure of watching others receive.
Can I say that about myself?
Not always.
Just when I think I may be becoming a “big girl,” God sends a clear message that I have a long ways to go…………………
And looking at this photograph is a visual reminder that I have a LONG ways to “grow!!!”
Needing to be watered daily in His Word,
In December of 2007 as our youngest son, Nick, was fighting brain cancer, I began to blog. Writing provided a way for me to release all of my questions, fears, and doubts. It also allowed me to share the ups and downs of Nick's journey with people who were praying for him all over the world. When Nick went Home in November of 2008, my blog became my way of searching for God in the midst of my deep heartache. My heart was broken and grief brought to the surface every emotion imaginable. Being able to release those emotions through my writing brought a sense of purpose to my pain. Having already walked the road of grief in 1992 when we lost our daughter to SIDS, I knew I needed a way to keep from falling into a pit of depression and despair. I had walked close to the edge of a bottomless pit when we lost our daughter,and I knew I couldn't let myself get that close to the edge again. This blog has been and continues to be my tiny corner of the world where I can share My Heart as I journey through God's Word.......thus the name........ My Heart His Words. Thank you for taking time to share life with me. If we do not meet while here on earth, I look forward to hearing all about your life when we reach our final destiny.........Heaven! Email me anytime at 
Well, I don’t think it was a coincidence that you ended up at the same restaurant….
He sure is a very tall man! I bet he draws attention everywhere he goes. He has a kind face and a welcoming smile. Glad you had a chance to get your picture with him!
Tammy God’s perfecting timing he knows what we need to up lift our spirit or to be an encouragement to someone else. What compassion that was exchanged that night. You and those girls were really blessed. You know maybe you and the girls was a blessing to Melvin to encourage his kindness to others that witness it.
Wonderful post, sweet Tammy. He is one tall dude, huh? I felt such warmth as I read your description of his spirit. What a joy to just be around folks who radiate such joy.
Love ya,
Paula
Great picture, Tammy! My goodness you look short! 🙂 A big man with just as big a heart – what a blessing!