Baseball is America’s pastime. Likewise, baseball is also my pastime. Ever since I can remember, I have loved playing baseball. By this I mean literally ever since my brain was developed enough to create memories, they have been filled with those of baseball. This game and the experiences I have had playing it have molded me into the person I am. Whether it was one of my coaches teaching me to be a better person, or learning how to not only win with class but also lose with class, or making some of my best friends, or learning virtues like patience and hard work, or bonding with my father, this game has always had a positive influence on my life. The list of things that baseball has done for me goes on and on, and just thinking about my experiences fills me to the brim with joy. Even though playing the game of baseball at a competitive level ended along with my last year of high school, everything that I learned will stay with me forever. I actually could have continued playing in college at a couple of small schools, but I felt the time was right to stop playing. As soon as the last out was made of the championship game I was in shock that it was all over. When I hugged my parents we were all in tears, not because we lost, but because such a big part of our lives had come to an end. It was bittersweet because I've gotten so much joy from playing but I know I can no longer play. However, it’s not like I can’t enjoy the game anymore. I can still cheer for my Houston Astros, play catch with my little brother, and watch my younger siblings play their hearts out on the field. Playing with them brightens my day because I know that they are getting experiences that are just as moving and inspirational as the ones I had during my baseball career. Later in life I hope my children will have the opportunity to experience baseball because if they get half as many great coaches, role models, experiences, and life lessons as I did, I know they will be better people.