A Tribute to Jackie Robinson

Sixty years ago, Jackie Robinson began a journey of endurance. His breaking into the major leagues was both sweet and bitter. He endured untold prejudice every where he went. None of us know how deeply he was wounded by all that. I had no idea who he was when the picture here was taken. I grew up in South Williamsport, PA, the home of Little League Baseball. Every year, tens of thousands of people gather at this small town for the Little League World Series. That international event has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. In 1965, I was twelve years old and a Little Leaguer myself. Jackie Robinson was in Williamsport with ABC Sports as a commentator for the world series. Our family always sat at the top of the hill next to the stairs. My dad said, here comes Jackie Robinson, let’s see if we can get a picture taken. Jackie graciously stopped and let me stand between he and his son for the picture. Now, looking back over the years and reading the history of how he was treated, I am amazed at the grace he showed, "a little white boy." He could have been fueled by anger and hatred like was shown to him from us, but instead he rose above all that and was kind to those he met. Though at the time, I had no clue who I was standing next to, I know now and am humbled. The picture is a valued possession but more than that, what Jackie Robinson stood for and accomplished is far more valuable. I pay him tribute today!

About Scott Ranck

Enjoying life with my wife Gayle and our Yorkie, Zoe boy. I've come to believe life begins when through brokenness I can embrace it fully and openly. I've learned the human drama is an adventure and all of us are made of the same stuff. The Lord is the only being who knows me fully and he has an individual educational plan of life long learning for me and I'm enrolled. This blog is all about what I'm learning.

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