It’s funny the things that stay with us.
I used to watch a lot of baseball until my team (The New York Mets) broke my heart one time too many. One of my most vivid memories from all those hours spent in front of the TV was something announcer Fran Healy said on air when Mo Vaughn was a Met. Vaughn hit colossal home runs, practically sending balls into orbit. He was an intimidating presence and he filled the batter’s box. But Mo … well, let’s just say it probably wouldn’t have hurt Mo’s game if shed a few pounds that season. (The photo below shows a relatively svelte Mo.)
Healy: “There comes a point in a man’s life when you have to say no to the donuts.”
I quote this sometimes, and when I say it I’m never referring to a person’s weight. Usually I’m referring to myself and I’m talking about accepting certain harsh realities. Oh, let’s say a much younger friend texts me at midnight, trying to lure me out for a drink when I’m already in my jammies. “There comes a point in a man’s life when you have to say no to the donuts.” Or maybe I’m talking about that documentary that’s taking a long time to finish because I want it to be perfect. “There comes a point in a man’s life when you have to settle for less than perfect and finish the damned thing.” I mean, say no to the donuts.
Forgive me, it’s been a rough week on the A Life’s Work front.