In today’s issue of the New York Times, there was an Op-Ed piece on what families hand down to the next generation. It covered the usual suspects of things you can touch and see — clothes, furniture, and oh yes, an animal head! All of which serve as visual reminders of the family member who has passed on.
But there are some family heirlooms you can’t see — you can only feel ’em! And what’s better is that they can be given by the living.
I inherited my love of the Yankees from my mother. I can vividly recall her taking me to my first Yankee game when I was a little girl of four or five; I remember her crying upon learning of the news of Thurman Munson’s death; and, I can also recall us both swooning over Mariano Rivera when he first joined the team. (As my friends can attest, I LUV Mariano!)
I am a die-hard Yankee fan because, well, they are “The Yankees.” But also because of the bonding moments my mother and I have shared watching a game together or “together” in our respective homes 800 miles away from each other.
With the sad news of George Steinbrenner’s passing, I am reminded that family heirlooms – regardless of whether they are something you can touch or “feel” – are about memories. Many thanks for some awesome memories, Mr. Steinbrenner!
My condolences to the Steinbrenner family and the Yankee team and staff.
Jacquette,
Glad to know you are also a Yankee fan. Of course, my own attachment predates yours by a bit. I saw Mickey, Yogi, Elston Howard, Whitey Ford et all play in the 50’s when they barnstormed through Memphis every year or so! Through all the thick and thins of trying to dominate the league with money, I haven’t managed to shake ’em. Love him or hate him, The Boss was good for the game.