Roberto Osuna, a pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays has led an amazing life thus far. It is a story worth telling; however, life has not been easy for this young Mexican born athlete. The poverty, threat of street gangs, stray bullets, and drug lords infiltrated his childhood and humble beginnings. His passion to play professional baseball was and continues to be evident. We Torontonians cheer him on to succeed as a member of our beloved Canadian team. Close family ties bind him to his parents and siblings. He maintains true basic values of loyalty, dedication and respect for his country of birth and those who surround him with unwavering support and love. As a boy of twelve, he left school to contribute to his family but a passion to play ball remained. In his teens, his athletic ability earned him recognition and the rest is history now in the making. This was despite an injury that once left him uncertain of his future. During this time, Roberto realized that he was not solely in control of his destiny. His began to accept and understand his God-given talent with a sincere sense of gratitude and trust. His now familiar mound ritual of removing his hat and praying before his first pitch is impressive. Even more impressive is his thanks given at the end of the game. Roberto Osuna does courageously what we often fail to do. Letting God in for guidance, support and partnership with our daily routine is not weak. When things are going well, we often become over confident, relaxed, and invincible. We are certain that any success is due to our own efforts. It is true that hard work is important, but we also should realize that life can change in an instant. We do not always have the ability to stand alone without help and hope. Acceptance is a sign of real strength. In spite of many who don’t understand, mock or laugh at Roberto Osuna for his baseball prayers, he continues to display a visible faith embodied by his simple loyalty, dedication and respect to the One who made him the unique individual he has become. God speed, Roberto Osuna. You are a fine example of those who witness in the midst of a culture that sometimes forgets to acknowledge their Divine connection.
James (Jim) Dunn
Blesséd Blending
April 11, 2016