From the earliest time I can remember, I have been playing wiffleball. My first memories start in my grandma and grandpa Osborne's backyard. The field consisted of thick zoysia grass, a flat infield that sloped down from second base (a short maple tree) to the chain link fence, and a white in-ground drain that served as home plate. I would throw the ball up in the air to pitch to myself, but after dinner, most of my family would come outside and play. It was such a happy time, with grandma, grandpa, my dad, mom, cousins, even aunts and uncles playing. That was our family activity...
From the earliest time I can also remember Matt, my dad's brother (my uncle), was my playmate as a kid. He had down syndrome. Growing up and playing at my grandparents, Matt was always there. His mental ability never grew past an older child's, and so for me, he was the source of a lot of fun growing up. Playing trains, cars, watching the Cubs or Cardinals, going on rides in the evenings was pretty much a weekly routine in our family, along with the wiffleball, of course.
The genesis of our wiffleball tournament and the reasoning behind it is simple: it's what I like to do, what I have lived, and in a way, a tribute to my family and upbringing. At our house wiffleball is a way that everyone can be active and participate, but it is also the way that we relax at night. I love being able to spend time with my family just throwing the ball and watching it get smashed somewhere. I love listening to the kids chase each other around the bases, giggling the entire time. It just feels right.
After the first year of 'Wifflefest', which really was just a cool birthday party turned wiffleball game, we decided to use it for good. We started raising money for the Pujols Family Foundation because we believe that every person is beautifully and wonderfully made, just like Matt. Much like Albert Pujols, who is a follower of Jesus Christ, we are also Christians. As a Christian we believe that our life is not our own, but we are now God's... and we are here to do His work and show others His love. It is no longer Justin Osborne who lives, but really Jesus living through me.... and our whole family.... via our Wifflefest.
Matt passed away when I was in 8th grade, so long ago. I know that others were really so much more involved in his life than I was... but, Wifflefest is my small reminder of him.
As you consider Wifflefest 6 and all the things that it entails, please remember that this, in its basic form, is just what our family is all about, how we relax and have fun, and how we show love to one another. We invite you to come along for the ride.
