by James Finn Garner
From Jackie Robinson
I learned about grace under the gun
From Satchel Paige
I learned of the illusions of age
From Dick Allen
I learned never to give in
From Hammerin’ Hank Aaron
I learned to keep on keepin’ on
But from Ernie Banks
I learned to give thanks.
RIP. Let’s play two, forevermore.
Thanks, man.
Some verse from Mr. Cub himself.
“The Cubs are due,
in ’62.
The Cubs will come alive,
in ’65.
The Cubs will be heavenly,
in ’67-ly.
The Cubs will shine,
in ’69,
The Cubs will glow,
in ‘7-0.”
Ernie Banks — his name
Equals abundant joy.
And all for a game.
Baseball is all about
Numbers — and Ernie’s
Were very good.
But what got him in
The Hall of Fame, for me,
Is how he always
Remained the same —
Loyal to a team,
Ebullient when he played.
In short, “Mr. Cub.”
From Stan Musial,
Learned what’s unusual
From Willie Mays,
I learned whom to praise
From Curt Flood
I learned to give blood.