Out At Second
I was a young woman, who had it all. Who could ask for more. I was at my prime, a full 16 and a half, with a license (but no car) and a star on the softball team. Once you exclude the seniors, third baseman …. and my baby sister. I was born to lead the team to victory. By sheer effort on my part I would pull the team to win the season –because I wanted it bad enough. I also had to prove that I indeed was better than my sister. I had to make the plays that saved the day. The catch to win the game. On this sunny day I had to steal the base to make us win.
It was the first inning of the game. I was up to bat, the ball was pitched, smack… the ball launches into the outfield and I get on base. I felt good because the other person didn’t get on. My stats were rising!
“I got to win this game”, I said to myself. My coach standing next to third said wait for my signal to steal. Wait for a signal??? Doesn’t he know that I am the second, third, … fastest person on my team? Of course excluding my sister Mia. We need to win this game. We can ‘t do it by being timid.
So the very next pitch, I took a huge lead. The catcher caught the ball – but there was no way she could throw in time with my lead. I decided to go for it. I dashed to second and slid into the plate. Dirt flew all over the place. When it settles down I hear “Your out!”. Wait, what? I am out, that isn’t possible.
You must first learn to follow
“We needed you, you not listening caused us not to score that inning. And you now aren’t in the game. She is the best catcher in the league.” Those words from Coach P. still ring in my ears today. My leading that day led the entire team to loosing.
I learned that day, to lead you first must learn to follow the wisdom of others.