Thursday; April 13

If there is someone who seemed to exemplify what is good about the game of baseball in our generation, it probably would be Cal Ripken, Jr. I realize his record streak of playing in 2632 straight games is becoming “ancient history” (having been established almost 25 years ago), it is also one of the most impressive sports accomplishments of many of our lifetimes. Cal Ripken’s streak wasn’t easily accomplished – it involved being willing to play with pain, work through personal challenges and even involved switching positions – but in the end, he was there day-in-and-day-out. While physical talent and mental toughness helped Ripken do what he was able to do, I believe there was something else that helped him reach his milestone. I recently came across his quote, “I always thought being a gamer and someone who had a sense of responsibility to the game and to my teammates was the honorable thing.”. Setting the record wasn’t just a personal accomplishment, it was something he did because he had a commitment to be there for his teammates. Being consistent, being reliable, being there with and for those who counted on him was something that he saw as the right thing to do.

We live in a time when consistency and reliability may not mean as much as it has in the past. Sure, people can probably get along without us, but when we don’t pull our weight … when we don’t do our share … we make it harder for the people around us. Let’s do the honorable thing and do our best. When we do, not only will we be able to accomplish more, we will help the people around us be better.

Think About It! 

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