Baltimore has been impacted these past few days by protests and anger, which has resulted in the unforeseen future of the Orioles’ series and the destruction of large parts of this city. Many people are lost in their emotions, and concern for the great city of Baltimore.
However, I say that through the darkness, there will be a better future for Baltimore.
I was born in Baltimore and and spent a small part of my life here, so I consider it “my city.” This city has brought promise and hope for the hard-working, blue-collar families since the founding of our country. I have always respected Baltimore, ignoring the jokes and jeers of others. Baltimore, through all its downfalls and shortcomings, has always bounced back through adversity and struggle.
If I had to name a moment that best defined my love of Baltimore, it would be Game 1 of the 2012 American League Division Series against the Yankees on October 7, 2012. It had rained the entire day, and the fans started to pour into the stadium, so eager and willing to get the game started. The tarp was on the field, and when we finally got the call to remove the tarp later that night, I could describe that moment as one of the most memorable of my life.
“Boys, I’ve been waiting for my whole life for this moment,” our Tarp Crew boss, Rob Doetsch, told us.
We ran onto the field that night with the crowd roaring around the stadium. It was by far my favorite moment as a member of the Tarp Crew, it made me realize that this job wasn’t about the Orioles. It was about the great community and fans of Baltimore.
The fans are just part of what makes Baltimore a great city. The fans are what make game-day in Baltimore a great place to be on a Sunday for the Ravens or a nice Friday night for the Orioles. Baltimore wouldn’t be as great of a place, without the great fans.
Baltimore is defined by its legends, but I say it is our great fans that will forever define this city.
I know that times will be different in Baltimore, but that’s just life. Sometimes, we need a dramatic change to open the door for something greater than we could ever imagine. Yesterday was a day of sadness and destruction, but I hope and pray for a future of love and hope for this great city.
I conclude this with a quote by Laura Lippman:
“Anyone can love a perfect place. Loving Baltimore takes some resilience.”
Baltimore is home for me, and it always will be.
One Response
As many O’s fans as possible need to go to the stadium tomorrow for the game. Surround the stadium and show support for the team that represents the city in solidarity. Protest the rioters that they will not dampen the pride and hope in the community and support your team no matter what.