A week into the new baseball season
The painted “opening day” behind home plate fading
Along with the foolish dreams of 162-0
And you know it’s a long marathon to October
Full of ups and downs and in-betweens.
As familiar players settle into their old roles
New players try to fill open slots
Like a family where all members fill a certain need
No matter how dysfunctional.
You tell yourself to ride the ups and downs
And not get discouraged or too invested
Or overly excited and hopeful.
Just glide like a centerfielder chasing a lazy ball
On a sunny summer day.
And enjoy the journey to the finish line.
THE POETRY OF THE GAME