Tunnel vision

By John Pierce

Friday night’s home opener at Turner Field provided a unique and enjoyable experience this year. 

Along with many others, including my friends Marshall Kerlin and Scooter Brown, I had the chance to help unfurl the massive American flag that covered much of the pristine outfield grass during the singing of the National Anthem.

Both the afternoon rehearsal and the evening event were delayed by rain. But that did nothing to detract from the overall experience. It did, however, give more time to chat with fellow fans and Braves staff, and to see behind-the-scenes aspects of major league sports.

We gathered in the stark, concrete tunnel below the outfield stands, to surround and assemble the over-sized Old Glory. Clear instructions were given by Braves staff charged with such logistical matters.

However, pauses were required due to the whizzing of golf carts carrying electricians, groundskeepers and other stadium maintenance staff. 

Equipment and supplies were stored in various places.

All of these typically out-of-sight background activities serve as a reminder that most of what we see is made possible by so much that is not seen.

The handsomely paid stars in uniform on the field deserve to be in the bright lights. But they’d be in the dark without the skilled electricians who keep the lights on.

Talented musicians who belt out “O Say Can You See…” would not be heard without sound engineers and those who get the singers in the right place at the right time.

As is often the case, what happens in baseball has application for larger dimensions of life. Most of what we see and do is made possible by the commitments, gifts and goodness of others.  

In all of life, we are better when we bring our diverse talents to a common task. Players are not the only ones who benefit from being part of a team.

Photo: Scooter Brown (right), Homer the Brave, and I check out sample stadium seats in the outfield tunnel, apparently part of efforts to build a new home of the Braves about 12 miles northwest of the current ballpark.