Just Enjoy the Game
Yogi Berra was a professional baseball player who played 19 seasons in the major leagues for the New York Yankees. For 18 years, he was an All-Star in the catcher position and won 10 World Series. He died several years ago and was known for his colorful wit and wisdom.
Among his more memorable lines are:
- It ain’t over till it’s over.
- Baseball is 90% mental, and the other half is physical.
- A nickel ain’t worth a dime anymore.
- Always go to other people’s funerals; otherwise, they won’t come to yours.
- You better cut the pizza in four pieces because I’m not hungry enough to eat six.
- I usually take a two-hour nap from one to four.
- Never answer an anonymous letter.
- Pair up in threes.
In one particular game, Yogi watched as the batter approached the plate. The Yankee catcher had seen it all, and this guy was like so many: eager to get a hit but needed all the help he could find.
The batter stood at the plate and made the cross sign, then pointed toward the skies, both symbols of prayer as he summoned the Almighty to his aid.
“Hey buddy,” said Yogi from behind his mask, “Why don’t we just let the Lord enjoy the game?”
On this one, I’m with Yogi.
This weekend begins the baseball World Series between the Houston Astros and the Philadelphia Phillies. Football season is in full swing at every level. The question people often ask is: Whose side is God on?
How about neither!
Former Notre Dame football coach Lou Holtz, a devout Catholic, is not shy about his faith. Whether he’s a believer or not, I don’t know. Holtz was once asked what his team would pray for before a game. His answer was insightful.
“Usually, you pray for togetherness, for overcoming problems, and for each other,” Coach Holtz explained. “We never, ever prayed for victory. I felt that that had to do with preparation and doing the things you needed to do, but we were just thankful. I think that when we prayed, we acknowledged greatness. We confessed the things we’ve done wrong. We give thanksgiving for the things we’ve had, the opportunity to play the game, the opportunity to be at this school and the opportunity to be associated with the various people. We’re thankful for our family. And then, of course, what we hope for is to help us realize the potential we have and to be able to live up to the talents that (were) given to us.”
Let’s keep them in perspective as we enjoy sports at all levels. Just sit back and enjoy the game!
Photo by Brandon Mowinkel on Unsplash