Happiness is true compassion

The other day I attended one of my 8 year old grandson's baseball games.  He has played baseball for a few years and enjoys the game, but this year he is on a team where his coaches seem to have the "win at all costs" mentality instead of the desire to build baseball and life skills with these young boys.  They seem to think that harsh words and loud voices will bring out the best in their struggling prodigies instead of providing sound instruction and building confidence.  During one particular play when my grandson's team was in the outfield, a ball was hit which took a mean bounce and hit one of my grandson's teammates in the leg and he immediately fell to the ground writhing in pain.  Meanwhile, the errant ball rolled over to where my grandson was standing and he picked it up while walking towards his wounded teammate.  Despite the commotion in the outfield, the two base runners continued to progress towards home plate as my grandson's coaches screamed at him to throw the ball to get the players out.  I can't express the overwhelming feeling of pride that came over me as I watched this young boy not even waiver as his whole focus was no longer on the game, but on his friend who was lying on the field.  I know that the sports mentality of the day is on competing and winning no matter what, but I was so grateful that this sweet little 8 year old taught me a greater life lesson on caring, compassion and priorities.