Show Up and Stay Up

If you enjoy baseball, this is an exciting time of the year as the World Series is being played. One of the greatest accomplishments in the sports history was Cal Ripken breaking Lou Gehrig's record of, 2131 consecutive games played. To be in attendance on that memorable day would be a once in a life time experience for an avid baseball fan like my late friend, Phil Hempfing.

Phil was an assistant superintendent of schools in Hanover, PA. His office was adorned with Baltimore Orioles memorabilia and pictures of his favorite player Cal Ripken. As the record-setting game approached, Phil had to be there. Countless calls to the team ticket office and brokers all informed him the game was sold out. Phil was undaunted, he became aware of a ticket lottery he could enter with a sizeable donation to a Baltimore charity. He made his contribution and eagerly awaited the results of the drawing. Days later he learned he was going to the game, albeit in the upper deck or in sports vernacular "nose bleed" seats.

On Sept. 6th, 1995, Phil arrived at the stadium two hours before game time and, as instructed went to the will-call window to obtain his ticket. The reservation clerk searched her files and unfortunately could not locate a ticket for Phil Hempfing. Since he had an uncommon last name, he had her try various spellings to no avail. It was now 6:20 PM with the game commencing at 7:00 PM.

The woman behind the glass partition felt terrible for Phil and said would see what she could do. A few minutes later an executive from the organization appeared with a ticket and with a wry smile said enjoy the game.

Phil entered the stadium and was met by an usher who immediately, escorted him to his seat. Not in the upper deck but the front row. The only danger of a nose bleed now would be a line drive hitting him since he was so close to the field.

If you have ever seen the famous picture of Cal Ripken bowing to the crowd you will immediately notice familiar faces. President Bill Clinton, Actor Tom Hanks, Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig and my friend, Phil Hempfling!!

Possibilities can happen if you just hang in there even when circumstances are discouraging. I share this thought with my audiences, during challenging times, "show up and stay up". This attitude is often the priceless ticket to success.

Positively,

Roger Crawford

Roger Crawford has helped more than 3,000 audiences turn the pessimism of "I can't" into the unstoppable power of "I can".

He knows about determination, optimism and defying the odds. Sports Illustrated calls Roger one of the most accomplished physically challenged athletes in history.

Roger's inspirational story has been featured on Larry King Live, Good Morning America, and CNBC and in publications such as USA Today, Fast Company, Men's Fitness.