More From Leland P. Gamson

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” — Proverbs 22:6 (KJV)

My love for the YMCA, which started with the baseball program that I wrote about in today's meditation, still continues today. As a retiree, I go to my local Y six days a week. People of all ages swim, play basketball and volleyball, run, lift weights, walk, and do yoga there. All our activity is done with wholesome music in the background and inspiring Bible verses visible on the wall.

One of the great services provided to our community is a children-and-youth program. It gives children a safe, wholesome place to go where they receive structure and discipline in a fun, happy setting. I enjoy reading my illustrated stories to the very young members in that program.

I like going to our Y because everyone is welcome there, and we all get along. People from all different walks of life become friends. We all want to be there, and are all equal as children of God. For me, the experience I have there is a little foretaste of the New Jerusalem.