The Veteran
The serious side of Goose
He pulled his car into the field's parking lot and sat looking at the
empty diamond. First to show at the first practice of yet another season,
the veteran of many campaigns. Why are the experienced (chronologically
challenged) the first to arrive - out of habit, courtesy, fear? Stiff yet
eager joints haul the weary yet anxious frame from the vehicle into an
immediate and mandatory full body stretch. Equipment, both new and old,
is pulled from the vehicle, the knight and his accouterments. "I need a
page to help me carry this junk." Other cars arrive, other cars driven by
other veterans. Time still for him to appreciate his presence here; a few
moments of solitude while the others collect their gear. The satisfaction
of still feeling the urge, the desire, the joy. Yet another season of
funny looks, smirks, half-hidden ridicule and the even occasional
expression of envy from peers long retired from games of their youth.
Another series of explanations, arguments, and compromises with the
spouse, off-spring and relatives. Another period of increased aches and
pains. Any season could be the last due to injury (including the
first)-no fear of that now. All for a few moments of boyish-like
enjoyment in a game all but devoid of adult meaning and rationale. Ah,
this silly little game played with sticks and balls, gloves and bases.
He may be too old to still be doing this, he's just not old enough to
stop.
-Goose Williamson
Return to News