“Don’t look back…something might be gaining on you…”

Cleaning up my study (yes, really and truly) I opened a notebook I’ve kept for ages, but haven’t opened for ages. There tucked in front was a treasured clipping from forty-four years ago.

Leroy Robert “Satchel” Paige began in Negro League Baseball, was the first Black pitcher in the American League. It’s said when he auditioned for the Cleveland Indians, Paige threw four of his five pitches directly over a cigarette.

It’s also said that Joe DiMaggio regarded Paige as the “best and fastest” pitcher he’d ever faced.

Satchel Paige was as swift with thoughts as a ball. When Paige died I clipped the now raggedy article*. What I’ve cherished all these years are the quotes…wisdom beyond wisdom. Viz:

 “Avoid fried meats, which angry up the blood.”

“If your stomach disputes you, lie down and pacify it with cool thoughts.”

“Keep the juices flowing by jangling around gently as you move.”

“Go very light on the vices, such as carrying on in society. The social ramble ain’t restful.”

“Avoid running at all times.”

And my favorite:

     “Don’t look back. Something might be gaining on you.”

Blessings on Leroy “Satchel” Paige. And thanks for his enduring smarts.

*Apparently the quotes first appeared in Collier’s magazine.