"Players Gonna Play!"

[sral]

"Players Gonna Play"

"Drop the bat!" coach often spat.
To say I'd got a habit of running bases while holding it was an understatement.
It drove him fucking crazy back in school.
Nothing changed.
But even though I didn't understand the rules, I loved the game.
As I come of age it was much the same,
Stepping up to bat full of assurance.
No looking back.
Both eyes on the prize right in my sights, yet I swung too fast.
Another passed unattacked.
I was striking out every time somehow until I learned to be patient.
Determined to make it to the first of those bases.
Nervously waiting to seize the chance and increase my stats.
I keep it composed.
Breathing in slowly as I wield the bat.
I hear a crack.
Feel the snap as a connection is made.
Everything changed following my first success in the game.
I'd step to the plate with renewed belief,
duly seeking out opportunities to continue the streak.
Palms sweating.
Hard-headed.
This was all a sport now.
Sure, I got thrown some curveballs that formed doubts,
but I wasn't always caught out.
I talked the talk loudly having gained some momentum
and with a slight change of direction, I'd made it to second.
It put the game in perspective,
see at this base the dynamics change.
There's decisions you have to make.
React too late and you'll come unstuck,
not knowing whether to cut and run, or stand your ground and hang around.
Don't jump the gun.
Suck it up.
Wait your turn before you take it further
and race too early towards a place at third.
Patience first.
Stay alert.
When the end is in sight and your adrenaline heightens,
the pressure is frightening.
You'll feel it in your chest as it tightens.
But only those who can keep their head in a crisis are destined to triumph.
When you sense that the timing is right to make it to home,
savour your goal.
Take in the moment.
The game isn't over,
your seasons just started.
With the experience garnered you can swing for those bleachers regardless.
Use this victory as a marker to push on and grow.
Cherry pick those heavy hitters.
Put on a show.
Love every home point as much as you do those you pick up on the road.
Trust me I know,
because win, lose, or draw when you've been through it all you'll want someone to hold.
Don't be stuck on your own with nothing to show.
You can have your fun but just don't become the player
who can't see the diamond right under his nose.
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