FRANK NAVARRO
“If you’re fortunate,” he began, “you’ll encounter three things that will shape your life forever. These aren’t just aspects of existence; they’re what will allow you to thrive, not just merely exist.”
At twelve years old, I was often lost in dreams, and he was trying to pull me from my constant fantasy. Even for a kid my age, I tended to be scatterbrained—always looking around, rarely fully engaged. Sometimes I listened; often, I didn’t. But this time, something was different.
Leaning in a little closer, he said, “I want you to hear this clearly. There are three lessons you must come to terms with: love, animosity, and response. If you’re lucky, you’ll find love. And you probably will, because you’re not exactly unattractive.” I shook my head, muttering, “Thanks, Dad.”
Animosity will find its way into everyone’s life. What matters is how you handle it, both for yourself and for others. Your response will not only shape your own life but also affect those around you. Your reaction will reflect who you are.
But there’s more to learn. You’ll come to understand your environment, your town, and the world beyond. These experiences will enrich your life and deepen your sense of being. That’s why history is so crucial: it reveals what others have gone through before you and what’s happening around you now.
And in this way, you’re influenced by people and events across the globe and throughout history. There will be moments when the world demands a response from you. How you respond matters. We’re all interconnected. Your reactions might help correct situations and contribute to a better world. At some point, you’ll need to stand up and make a difference.
Hope you’re listening, kid. Understand that you have the potential to impact the world. Got it? You might turn out alright. What do you say?
I think I got it. And whatever I remember, I won’t forget. Now, can I get back to Koufax and Mays?