In the game of love, do you know who's on your team? Is there a relief kisser you've been keeping in the bullpen just in case? Or a pinch hitter who steps up to the plate when you need him? In baseball, there is always a batter on deck. Is it the same in life? I'm sure there are times when we keep striking out and wonder if we'll ever get out of the dating slump. However, maybe we are concentrating too much on finding a star player who hits home runs when the "short stop" along the way could hit a double that wins the game. But is it always about winning?
Remember that quote, "It's not whether you win or lose, it's how you play the game?" The more you play, the more you learn. Life, like baseball, isn't always going to give you a win. But, how will we ever learn anything about ourselves if we always get what we want and win? There will be some losses in your future no doubt about it. but what's important is how we bounce back from them. You're going to strike out. Unfortunately, not every person that we find attractive will share our attraction. You'll find yourself staring out at the mound ready for anything. You're thinking you can handle a fast one, a curve ball, or hell even a screwball. Then, he gives you his best sinker and before you know it, you're out. Every once in awhile, you're going to hit a foul ball. It's that relationship we thought was going to stay "in play," but goes out at the last second. Sometimes you just can't control where the ball goes, or the guy for that matter. You think you've checked your blind spot when he steals second base and moves on the next girl. It's inevitable that you get hit by a pitch or two at some point during your love career. Hopefully you will be lucky enough to avoid any physical violence, but there will be moments that sock you right in the gut and break your heart. But pain only shows you that you did actually care. You should be thankful because there are a lot of people who have no idea what it's like to love someone. They're riding the bench and one day, they will regret not stepping up to bat.
In the game of love, there are a million different ways that game could go. Sometimes it's in your favor and other times, love gets rained out. Regardless of how many times you strike out though, you have to keep the hope alive for that one perfect pitch. The bat connects with the ball like chemistry between two lovers, sometimes it flies out of the park, and your heart goes wild. But if for some reason you get tagged out, dust yourself off and head back to the dugout. Get ready for the next great pitch that comes your way because that could be the one that lands you in the Hall of Fame. So, batter up, baby! Let's play ball.
-ldw
[An oldie but a goodie from way back on March 4, 2007]
