Mike Seal
I have many fond memories of my father but the one that always sticks out is from my youth. I was 10 years old and pitching little league 2-3 times a week. In between games and practices Dad and I would cross the street I grew up on into the parkway and play catch. Catch turned into Dad taking a knee and catching for me. While refining and tuning in my game and mediocre skills Dad was always patient with me even when I’d zing a “wild thing” like pitch 4 feet over his head. Never once would he relinquish the catchers mit until we had a solid workout. One particular day I was pitching to the old man and mind you I’m 10 and I’m throwing 55-60 mph “heaters”…well one spinner grazed the top on his mit and the ball struck him square in the nose. I was mortified. As blood poured from my fathers face all I could do was apologize. Ol’ By didn’t even break stride. He scooped up the ball. Stuffed his sweat bandanna into both nostrils and we carried on with our practice.
What this man taught me was, even when you get your bell rung, or you feel like quitting. DON’T. Stuck it up and finish the damn game. Sports, relationships, life. It’s all transcending. Don’t quit and never let someone beat you. Even your 10 year old son. Words to live by and I will do so until it’s my time to go. I miss and love you Dad. You were and always will be my inspiration. SEMPER FI.
Mike