DiaryDad shares 5 things he learned while watching the Chicago Cubs with his grandpa.
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I’m turning 40 this year, and if I could cap it off with any one thing it would be the Cubs winning the World Series. Now before I get the cart before the horse I realize that there is a lot that needs to happen. Including, but not limited to, winning the National League Divisional Series against the Cardinals which they are in the middle of now.
Rooting for this team has consumed about 30 years of my life. I remember getting hooked watching them on TV with my grandpa. My grandpa took me to my first game at Wrigley Field. Then in 2003 I got to return the favor and take him on what would be his last trip to the Friendly Confines.
Every summer it would be an up and down ride for him and me as we talked about the play of our lovable losers. We knew better than to hope, but secretly we still did. Because one day we just knew they were going to win it all. So far they haven’t but the time spent with my grandpa as we indulged in this fantasy had an indelible impact on me, and ultimately how I am a father. Here are 5 things that I learned about life watching baseball with my Grandpa:
1. You have to learn to play as a team. You hear all the time the time that there is no “I” in team. While great individual performances do make the highlight reel, everybody must do their part for the team to win.
2. You have to step up to the plate. No matter what has happened in previous innings you have to step up to the plate when it is your turn. You will be facing difficult pitchers. They won’t make it easy for you. Their sole goal is to see that you fail, but stepping up is the only way you can win.
3. Three strikes and you are out. You don’t get endless chances, three strikes and then you go sit down. So make the most of each chance you get.
4. Swing where the ball is going to be not where its been. This is tricky takes practice and an ability to observe what is going on. You can’t be mired in the past all the time, you need to have a vision of the future so that you can make your way there.
5. The calls won’t always go your way (even when they should). There are good calls and there are bad calls and you will see them all. Some will go your way some will not. You have no control over them all you can do is prepare for the next play.
I spent a lot of time with my grandpa centered around baseball, watching it and talking about it. Probably the greatest memory about baseball with him was standing out in front of our house playing catch. We’d talk about everything and nothing, and sometimes not at all. They were hours that I’ll cherish because that was one of the many ways he showed interest in me.
I know I put 5 things in the title — so we’ll call this a bonus one — and it is probably the best one; take time to show your kid(s) that you are interested in them, whether it’a game of catch, a baseball game, or something that has nothing to do with baseball but everything to do with them.
This year as I get to watch my Chicago Cubs play October baseball (for as long as it may last), I’ll be thinking of my grandpa, missing him and remembering him, and ever so thankful he took the time to help shape me into the man I am today so that I can shape my boys into the men they’ll be tomorrow.
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Eric Bennion can be found writing about fatherhood at diarydad.com and Tweeting @diarydad.
Photo Credit: the author.
Love this post and all the passion it shares. Wish I could meet your Grandpa. I’m sure you’re a great dad. Go Cubs!
He was a pretty great man, I was lucky to have him as a grandpa!
I’m rooting for the Cubbies. Enjoy the run and the memories of your grandpa.
I’ve been wondering how Cubs fans would accept winning. No more lovable underdog and sentimental favorite.
We just keep loving them I think… Boston fans still love their Red Sox. I’d like to find out.
we had a few good years at least. My daughter might not remember these long ago Sox Championships, but maybe it will help with the future pain sure to come. So far she really enjoys attending minor league games. I hope it continues. Great piece
I’m glad you liked it Jeremy nothing like sharing baseball with our kids
And it taught you to be okay with them losing … sorry, I’m a SOX fan, had to throw that in there.
Well played Tom, but SOX fans are learning that too right now. Thanks for the comment!