The “Pee Wee Reese Difference”
In this mixed-up and messed-up world, the words of the old song, Home, Home on the Range, sometimes ring in my heart. They are hard to forget: “Home, home on the range, where the deer and the antelope play, where never is heard a discouraging word, and the skies are not cloudy all day.” We normally hear more about this world’s troubles than about its good things. Negative “sells.” If there is a problem – a horrible crime, a failure of a politician or movie star, a car chase on a crowded freeway, economic troubles, etc., the media covers it with fevered frenzy. What if we could hear more news that is uplifting and encouraging … news of what is good and right in our world? In 1947, there must have been many times when Jackie Robinson wanted to be in the place where “never is heard a discouraging word.” That’s when he began his major league baseball career with the Brooklyn Dodgers. As the first African-American to play in the major leagues since 1889, his presence brought out the worst in other players and fans. Racial slurs and taunts were commonplace. Players on his team and on opposing teams threatened not to play with him on the field. He and his family were threatened. But, Robinson had those who stood by him in his trials. In one game against the Cincinnati Reds, the abuse hurled at Robinson was elevated. At one point in the game, Robinson made an error, and stood embarrassed and dejected at second base. One teammate, shortstop and Dodger captain Pee Wee Reese, went to Robinson and put his arm around his shoulder. That moment of encouragement and friendship was a turning point for Jackie Robinson. He later would say that it saved his career. The Bible says, “Encourage one another today, while it is called today, lest any of you be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.” (Hebrews 3:13) This verse lays before us a duty to encourage others in our lives. Why? Without encouragement we tend to toughen up and get cynical, become negative and pessimistic, discouraged and fearful. What would we have missed in major league baseball if people like Leo Durocher and Pee Wee Reese had not encouraged Jackie Robinson in those dark days of 1947? What might we miss if we do not encourage others when we have the chance? Who needs encouragement? Just look around. It may be a fellow Realtor®, a client, your pastor, or a member of your own family. How can we encourage others? With things like these: a kind word, a thoughtful act, taking time to listen and understand, a hug or an arm around the shoulder, a smile, a phone call, a helpful note, a thank you, or a heartfelt prayer. When we take the time and make the effort to encourage others, we may make the “Pee Wee Reese Difference” in someone’s life!
About the Author
Sky Realty offers a great service to those in need of finding or selling a home in the Austin Texas area, http://skyrealtyaustin.com.
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