Friday was the 64th anniversary of Jackie Robinson's historical debut as the first man of color to play professional sports in America. We have certainly come a long way in our country regarding the advances that have been made by African Americans in all fields of endeavor. What a great legacy and example Mr. Robinson left us with to carry on in his memory.
As many of you know, I had the honor of meeting Mr. Robinson and spending a day at his home with his family when I was a boy. Needless to say, that experience of meeting Mr. Robinson had a profound affect on my life. My mother's maiden last name was Robinson. It is not an accident that my wife and I decided to give our son the name Robinson not only to continue the family name, but also to honor Mr. Robinson, who set in motion a series of events in America that would make our country a better place for EVERYONE.
Last friday on the anniversary of that historic day back in
1947, Robinson Brown played in a baseball game in Branford, Connecticut. In the last inning with the score tied and two outs he hit a line drive past the pitcher for a single. He then stole second base. On the next pitch he stole third base. Clearly rattled the pitcher threw the next pitch in the dirt and Robinson dashed for home plate. Robinson slid in to home with the winning run and was mobbed by his teammates at home plate.
Call me a sentimental old fool, call me a proud father, call me anything you want. But for a boy named Robinson to steal home plate to win a game, just as Jackie Robinson did on many occasions, and for him to do it on April 15th while every major league baseball player is honoring Mr. Robinson by wearing his retired uniform #42 is just one of life's magical moments that defy explanation.
- Michael BrownI know that Heather, Mr. Robinson and all the Robinsons,
Martins (Heather's maiden name) and Browns watched from above as Robinson dashed around those bases and they all beamed with pride. Oh I forgot to mention... this year Robinson decided to honor Mr. Robinson by choosing to wear ........#42.
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