Two friends in competition

I watched a beautiful act Saturday afternoon. Here’s the scene:

Two little league baseball teams on a picturesque spring day.

Two friends on opposing teams — one at bat, the other at shortstop.

The batter’s team is leading significantly, but the batter has not yet contributed.

The pitch... the swing... *crack* The ball sails into the outfield, and the batter makes it easily to second base, smiling as his team cheers wildly.

And without any hesitation, play complete, the friend at shortstop trots over to second to congratulate his pal before getting back into position.

* * *

Character in the face of adversity. Friendship within competition. Young, athletic passion.

It was all there on that baseball field, and it was worthy of goosebumps on a warm day.