The impact of legends

Growing up I was, an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. Many a night I would stay awake, lying under the covers, listening to my transistor radio as Hall of Fame announcer Jack Buck would call the game. I had been instructed by my mother to be sleeping and getting my rest for school the next day, but I could not help but lay there in anticipation of the last out of the game and Jack Buck saying his immortal call: “That’s a winner!” Those are very poignant and precious youthful memories to me.

Recently, Hall of Famers Lou Brock and Bob Gibson passed on; two Cardinals legends who were some of my favorite childhood heroes. I watched or listened to them play hundreds of games and took from them their competitive spirit under pressure, their desire to win, and their commitment for excellence. They were my “friends” (at least in my heart) and I learned a lot about how to go through life by watching them play. Knowing they have now passed on makes me feel a profound loss: a sense that something is gone that will never be replaced. They were two men of color in a time when color mattered, but it did not for me. To me they were simply great men and I wanted to play like them, be like them and win like they did.

Now that they are gone, it makes me wonder and recollect about the other people who impacted me. My folks and grandparents of course, but the teachers, coaches, youth leaders, Sunday School teachers, neighbors and friends who helped to formulate who I am, how I think, and what I value. As I think about all the influences I have had and the impression they had upon me, I am thankful for their willingness to shape me and formulate me into all I have become.

So, who looks up to you? Have you considered who your actions and words impress and what type of impression you are making? We all have a responsibility and a duty to our community and our world to help those who come behind us, and to be the type of example so when our time comes to “cross that river” they will know our impact was for all things good, decent and respectful. As you go forward this week, stop and think what sort of example you are making for your children, grandchildren, neighbors and friends. We all need to do our part just like Sweet Lou Brock and Bob “Hoot” Gibson did for me. Sometimes legends are wearing a uniform and playing on a ball diamond, but more times they are mothers, fathers, neighbors, teachers and friends.

Thought for the day: The quickest way to double your money is to fold it over and put it in your back pocket!

Until next time … I will keep ridin’ the storm out!