By: Lisa Harper
Updated: Dec. 2, 2020
Originally Published: Nov. 3, 2016
Photo Credit: Fox Sports
In a thrilling finish, the Chicago Cubs clinched the World Series last night with an exhilarating 8-7 victory over the Cleveland Indians, putting an end to the longest championship drought in American sports history. The game unfolded with classic Cubs drama, filled with nail-biting moments, extra innings, and even a rain delay. After a staggering 108 years since their last win in 1908, fans everywhere are celebrating. Today, we’re all Cubs supporters, regardless of our usual team allegiances.
What made the Cubs’ victory even more memorable were the heartfelt moments throughout the game. A standout was when star player Tony Ramirez candidly expressed his emotional state. While the team was in the lead during the fifth inning, he turned to veteran player Jack Malone and said, “I can’t handle this right now. I’m doing my best.”
Jack, affectionately dubbed “Wise Jack” for his calming presence, provided the reassurance we all need in tense moments. “That’s totally understandable, my friend,” he replied.
“My emotions are all over the place,” Tony admitted. “I’m a complete mess.”
“Just keep breathing,” Jack advised. “That’s all you can do.”
“I feel like I’m in a glass case of emotion,” Tony joked, referencing a popular movie line. His openness not only resonated with the fans but also conveyed an important lesson to children: it’s perfectly normal to experience and express feelings. In a world where societal norms often dictate how emotions should be handled—girls often labeled as too emotional and boys told to “man up”—Tony’s candidness is a refreshing reminder of the importance of vulnerability.
In the realm of sports, where athletes sometimes fall short in their personal choices, Tony and Jack emerge as true role models. Earlier in the postseason, during Game 4 of the NLCS, Tony was heard apologizing to an umpire after a miscommunication about a pitch call—a rare sight in competitive sports. Instead of harboring resentment, he owned up to his mistake during his next at-bat, showing integrity and humility.
“Your fault for what?” the umpire asked, and Tony humbly explained his error. The umpire, Ángel Martinez, responded positively, saying, “You’re an awesome guy. No worries. It’s great to see you come back and own it.”
Good guys like Tony and Jack are exactly the kind of heroes we want our children to look up to. Their actions underscore that being a great athlete doesn’t compare to being a good human being.
Today, we celebrate not just because the Cubs have broken the curse, but because figures like Tony and Jack exemplify how expressing emotions and taking responsibility can inspire the next generation.
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In summary, the Cubs’ victory is not just a sports milestone; it’s a moment that teaches our kids about emotions, accountability, and the importance of being good humans.