Aftermath of umpire’s error is a lesson in virtues
Taking responsibility for one’s actions is key to a healthy, successful life; however, for many that is unthinkable. It’s easier to blame the government, media, teachers, spouses, childhood, etc. That is why what unfolded over the past couple of weeks were startling examples of how it should be.
As many of you know, there occurred a baseball game where the pitcher had a perfect game until the umpire in the ninth inning on the last play, or what should have been, made a colossal mistake.
Let’s take a minute and reflect on what it would be like if what we do for a living was watched by millions of people then reviewed over and over again in slow motion. Talk about pressure. No, thank you.
The umpire’s name is Jim Joyce, and he was considered by the players and managers to be one of the top umpires. What he did in the aftermath of his call showed who and what he is.
He stood up shortly after the game after reviewing the tape and apologized for blowing the play. He didn’t call his agent or publicist or have a prepared statement. He spoke from his heart and you could see the anguish on his face. The next day, when he was behind the plate to call balls and strikes, it was evident he was still upset.
Example No. 1: He took full responsibility for his actions.
The ballplayer who had been historically and in so many ways affected by the call, Armando Galarraga, was a picture of a forgotten virtue: grace. He accepted the apology and never denigrated nor blamed the umpire. Of course he was upset and disappointed, because this was a oncein a-lifetime game. However, he would not allow that moment to become his world.
Example No. 2: As the saying goes, bad things will happen in life; it’s how you react to them that determines the quality of your life.
The postscript to this is that after this happened, the ballplayers still voted Jim Joyce the top umpire in the game. I’m pretty sure there’s another example there.
Howard J. Mammano
Long Branch
