Take Me Out To The Ballgame

Written by Brian Redmond

Inspiration

Do you see that guy eating peanuts and Cracker Jacks® over there? He's just like you. In fact, there is a stadium full of people here who are just like you. They're watching the same game, but they are all unique. What is this game? It's not just baseball; it's life.

I believe that you can't head to second without rounding first. Life is a progression and you need to make sure you have your priorities in order before taking on something new. If you try to begin a relationship of trust with someone when you can't trust yourself, you run straight to second base from home plate. That umpire won't be happy, and a short walk to the dugout will surely be in order. The key to anything in life is understanding the basics before taking on the complicated challenges. Every person needs to possess a core set of values that guides their every move. Sometimes, smacking a single into right field is all a team needs to begin a winning streak. You don't have to get complicated with it.

I believe in the value of the "nosebleed" section. See that old guy up there in the cheap seats? His binoculars must be in constant use, because he's hanging out in the clouds. He's a smart dude though; he's watching the game for the price you paid for your Bud Light. He can enjoy his beer with the comfort of knowing that he didn't clean out his wallet for the day. Now how do you feel? In life, sometimes the best things are of little monetary value. The little things matter, and the best experiences found in living are often unexpected. Pay attention to the little things, and pay attention to what you see around you. Behind home plate, you have the best view of the game. Yet, don't forget that guy all the way up there. He sees everything. He has the whole picture.

I believe that a goofy, celebratory home run trot shouldn't be discouraged. Now, I'm not calling for an over-the-top display of ego. Rather, I want to see some enthusiasm and passion. Watch our first baseman as he's rounding the bases. See that subtle fist pump? He loves what he does, and he cares about helping his team. In the game of life, everyone needs to have a passion. Everyone needs to exhibit enthusiasm. When you succeed, celebrate! Enjoy your accomplishments! Humility is important, but don't just sit there quietly in your seat when your centerfielder makes a diving catch at the wall next to the giant Prudential ad. Throw a party, and share your joy with those around you.

I believe in playing well in each and every game. When managers lose a game early in the season, they often shrug it off by announcing to the media: "It's only the beginning. We have time." Then, when the team misses winning the pennant by a game, the losses tell a whole different story. The message here is quite simple: Enjoy the present. Every moment is important, and you can't get them back when they're gone. How do you want to see yesterday? As a wasted day, or as a day you appreciated wholeheartedly? How do you want to see yesterday's game? As a lackluster performance, or as a competition in which everyone worked their butts off? The answer to these questions is easy. You know what it is. The real question is this: Do you live in the present? Most of us today don't, and honestly, we should.

Finally, I believe in the season ticket holder. See the guy in section 112? I see him there all the time. Same seat, same joyful expression on his face. He loves life. He cheers for a routine single, and doesn't mind watching the game in the clouds. He claps during the home run trots, and stays for the duration of each and every game, blowouts included. He's not a fair-weather fan. This dude is in it for the long haul. This man understands the right way to live. When he bought his season ticket, he knew that his team might end up as a complete flop this year. Frankly, he doesn't care. Why? Because he loves the game. I aspire to be this man.

I believe in baseball; I believe in life.

Brian Redmond is a college student who loves baseball, hot dogs, apple pie, and his mother!