Taking part of greatness

We are down in Coos Bay for a few days this week to watch our son's baseball team play in the state single A American Legion baseball tournament.

The aged vet who took our money at the gate - I saw him hop on his adult tricycle in the afternoon.  I was moved by that because that used to be my primary mode of transportation.  A lifetime of serving and he continues to serve in whatever way he can.

Clyde Allen Field, a classic baseball venue.  The flag that waves high above the stands was once waving on a flag pole in Afghanistan.

The look in the kids eyes as they were asked to repeat the words of the American Legion baseball code of conduct was read to them:

I Will: Keep the Rules;

Keep Faith with my teammates;

Keep my temper; Keep myself fit;

Keep a Stout heart in defeat;

Keep my pride under in victory;

Keep a sound soul; A clean mind; And a Healthy body

The kids were antsy and just wanted the game to start, I know, but I hope they heard the words and tucked the words somewhere in their hearts. Great words to live by.

A game with Central Point on Wednesday, and a game with North Medford this morning.  Neither game went as we would have preferred.

Even so, the great American pastime played with heart by Oregon high school boys from across the state, mixed with the patriotic tradition of the American Legion - how can you not feel awe of the greatness of it all?

I have heard some of the olympians say that winning is great, but just being there to witness the greatness of it all is almost as great.

My hope is that one day, after the sting of defeat has passed, the boys will remember with pride the American Legion state baseball tournament they were part of and the words of the code of conduct they recited will come to mind.

Winning is great, but taking part of greatness is never a loss.