Overcoming the racial divide

 Today Major League Baseball celebrates the life of Roberto Clemente.

Growing up in the 1960s & 70s in Western Pennsylvania, Clemente was an icon. Millions of Pirates' fans, of all races embraced him for his skill, athleticism, accomplishments and his humanity. Clemente transcended racial boundries as did some of his contemporaries in Pittsburgh Sports. Names like Willie Stargell, Joe Greene, Manny Sanguillen and Franco Harris come to mind. I think Clemente may have struggled more than most due to his language barrier earlier in his career, the distance from his family and friends and the racial hostilities in the 50s and 60s, but, his efforts, skills and loving nature won over the majority. Clemente was known by the media to be a hypochondriac and moody but as fans we either didn't see it or overlooked it due to his other attributes. Clemente was also part of the first all Black lineup fielded by Danny Murtaugh in 1971. Imagine, that was a big deal.

Today we see athletes at the forefront of much of the discussion about race. Most have little understanding or appreciation for the struggles of the Black pioneers in pro sports and have lead a privileged life from the time that they were children due to their skills and the accommodations granted due to those skills. They too have the ability to transcend race due to their skills and have a much larger platform from which to speak due to the new age media yet they choose to inflame rather than inspire.

As American's we have an obligation to lift each other reminding those that we influence of the possibilities that are available with skill, hard work and determination rather than tear down our institutions. When we see wrong, we can change it. That is what the ballot box is for. In any community, White, Black, Asian, or Hispanic the possibilities in the US are far greater than any place on Earth. Let's promote that!

Finally, my Pastor challenged us with his message on Sunday to take 5 minutes daily to consider the sacrifice that Jesus made on our behalf. Pretty tough to riot, loot and burn if you consider that. Do you want to see change? Find someone in your sphere of influence that is struggling and become their mentor giving them hope, love and encouragement. That will transcend race, national origin, religion or socio-economic status.