This is a true story.

In softball, I’ve generally had good batting averages but not a lot of power, hitting usually for singles.  I mostly played in the outfield, with a decent arm and extremely good fielding skills.  In fact, I can’t remember a time when I’ve dropped a ball that I could reasonably get to.  I’ve even made some catches that I’m not sure how I caught them.  I was never a spectacular player, just solid and dependable.

Except in this one game in Indiana.

The Christian Legal Society and Christian Business Society had a charity game.  The Business team was led by a tall good-looking guy who prayed eloquently before the game.

The Legal team had me.

I play the game of my life.

No one wanted to play shortstop, so I did, channeling my inner Cal Ripken.  I dive for balls, catch liners, organize the defense.  I get on base every single time I’m at bat, even hitting for extra bases several times.

In the bottom of the 9th inning, we are down by three runs with the bases loaded.  Two outs.  It is my turn to bat.  All I can think of is don’t screw this up, just get on base and give someone else a chance to keep the rally going.

I hit the only home run ever in my life.  Never before, never again.  

And as I round the bases, I glance at the face of the Business team leader and he is in shock.  Also a little jealous.

I don’t bother staying for the post-game prayer, walking home instead with my glove under my arm.  With deep satisfaction.