Here’s a funny and true story that references humility and accomplishment – and the fact that even when you finally do something really ‘great’ someone, somewhere, is doing better than you.
This is a story that I tell in my live show. It involves three-time All-star Nate Colbert.
All-star Nate was enjoying the game of his life. Colbert’s best day in the majors was August 1, 1972, when he hit five home runs – matching Stan Musial’s record from 1954, and drove in 13 runs in a doubleheader, breaking the record of 11 RBIs set, previously, by Earl Averill (1930), Jim Tabor (1939), and Boog Powell (1966). Colbert’s 22 total bases also broke another doubleheader record by Musial.
They announced Nate’s name before he came to bat in the second game of the doubleheader….
The fans in attendance went wild…Cheering and standing and celebrating for several minutes to a point where Nate felt he was overcome with emotion.
The batter on deck said, ”Hey Nate, get up there and hit…what’s wrong?”
Colbert said, “Hit? Listen to this crowd (they were still cheering). I’ve had my best day as a pro and the crowd loves me….no one will ever have a better day than me.” The on- deck batter then said, “Nate, you better look at the scoreboard.”
Nate looked up and the scoreboard, which read: Congratulations We’ve just landed a man on the moon!!!!
Gene Cernan and Harrison Schmidt had just walked on the moon.
Remember HUMILITY, as someone will always have it better than you. And when you’re down remember… someone is having it WORSE than you, too!
Nate Colbert is STILL the all-time home run leader for the San Diego Padres.
He passed away in January 2023. RIP.
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