I love baseball metaphors. Partly because baseball is the only game I know and partly because this year’s World Series ended with the triumph of the San Francisco Giants, one of our local teams. Ah, yes, Madison Baumgarner, Pablo Sandoval and Hunter Pence, the current El Dorados, and a fine team of skilled veterans and sharp-eyed rookies gave us locals much to admire. Suited up for every game...
As I enjoyed the play…even the occasional routs…I always noticed the bullpen and the sideliners, and without exception all the team players and managers came suited up for every game, even if they were not scheduled to play that day. They watched; they sat; they were attentive, for who knew what could happen or what might be asked. Whatever, they were ready.
In a state of readiness...
Actually we come into life in a state of readiness, especially when we are young. The new baby may be born naked, but he is suited up already. Little kids can’t wait to jump out of bed and get started. It takes time and a few hard smacks to make us tentative, and there is wisdom to be learned in this as well. Maybe leaping without thought isn’t all it’s cracked up to be! The problem arises when we develop a lack of willingness or eagerness to put ourselves forward when the day beckons, fear of disappointment perhaps, or fear of being hurt. Still, it becomes a shame when all the risk taking in us drains out and what remains is a half glance at the forming possibilities.
They were not found wanting...
Certainly the Giants took risks as did their counterparts, the Kansas City Royals. One team took home a trophy but both became more aware of what they were really made of, and no one loses from that. They all came suited up, ready for all the surprises still forming, and they were not found wanting, not either team.
I don’t wish to be found wanting either, so whatever the day may look like, I am still willing to say: Put me in coach!
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