The recognition of the history we take part in every time we walk onto a ball diamond has made me a better umpire, I believe.
My part in any game is to represent that history, and the game of Baseball, itself. I remind myself of that each time I approach the playing field. With that perspective, I never lose my cool.
Any angry coach or frustrated player who approaches won't even raise my pulse, because I know that we are both a small part of a drama that has been unwinding for 150 years. And my job, like it has been since the local constable stood in my place, is to represent the game itself. Fairly, firmly, and honestly.
Jon Bible once advised, "Remember, the sun will still come up tomorrow." Meaning, keep your perspective, no matter how intense a single game becomes. When you keep the perspective of the whole history of the game in mind it is a great help in keeping cool in tough situations.
And as long as you can keep your cool, you can be a better umpire.
Good post, Jim. Thanks for the story.
Jordan McDowell
Member UT
|