In the post, A Golden Heart Trumps A Golden Voice, yours truly discussed the great story of Ted Williams, and the remarkable second chance at life he is receiving. While things have cooled regarding the buzz of Ted Williams, we have recently seen some negative stories pop up including the new born star. First, there was the “disturbance” issue regarding Williams and his daughter, and now recently, while not entirely negative (more so necessity) that Williams will be checking himself into rehab to continue the reformation of his life. It is great to see Williams take his second chance seriously by truly attempting to rid himself of his personal demons.
However, while Ted Williams continues to be the star, this “man with the golden voice” story is much deeper than a man with a golden voice. Yes, previously, I touched base that this story is about a golden heart. And while Ted Williams is looked at as the focus, this story is much more than Ted Williams.
The other part of this great story is that of Patricia Kirtley, the ex-wife of Ted Williams. In a story written in the NY Daily News, Kirtley explains the story of raising her and Williams’ four daughters, as well as one of the children he had with another woman while addicted to drugs. A woman of faith, Kirtley acknowledges that she holds no resentment towards Williams, and still continues to pray not only for his reformation, but for the reconciliation between Williams and their children, who hold some resentment. If that’s not enough to attest to the kind of woman Kirtley is, how about this, Patricia Kirtley is legally blind. Yes, legally blind.
Another side of this story is the one that I immediately thought of when initially hearing about this entire story – who is Doral Chenowet III? And why is he not receiving any interest from the media and our society for his ability to find not only a story out of nothing, but discovering a special gift in a homeless man?
In a story on CNN.com, Chenoweth’s past of generous giving and leading a very faith driven life is described in a very revealing and fascinating story. Chenoweth actually is known for interacting and giving what he could to homeless people around the Columbus area. Robin Chenoweth, Doral’'s wife, told a story of him stopping and giving a homeless man a blanket during their first date.
Chenowith is also a regular volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, serving communities all over the world. The most telling (and relatable) response of why he does what he does, Chenoweth stated, “It's part of my faith. You may not be able to help someone with money, but you can at least say hello, how you doing, and look at them.”
And while the story of Ted Williams is one that I am still very interested in, and somewhat in awe with, the stories of Patricia Kirtley and Doral Chenoweth III are just as (if not more)interesting and miraculous. As said before, this story is about golden hearts, not golden voices.
In a world where self-indulgence is the norm, moral boundaries and values are blurred, and faith-based lifestyles are considered “out-of-touch”, it is a pleasure to see two individuals who through their love and faith in God has helped not just save a life, but spur such a great story. It is one that is inspirational, miraculous, and downright divine. It is a story, regardless of coverage, that is much broader than the spotlight shun on Ted Williams.