Houston Astros - Our Team!

"Sometimes it takes one caring adult to inspire the life of another." - Shazi.

---

As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect.

     What an eventful Saturday. There was a bus crash in Nepal and attacks in Mogadishu. Both killing and injuring civilians. Closer to home we had some shootings, and also the incident involving Yuli Gurriel from the Houston Astro's team. Sounds like a typical Saturday, maybe it is? But should this be the case? - No.

    I wanted to particularly focus upon the incident involving the Astros team member, Yuli Gurriel. It is unfortunate that this has happened, and the fact that he has taken responsibility for what was said or happened is a demonstration of accountability. Yuli also said that the slur was not directed to Yu Darvish, but also decided not to appeal the decision. 

     This case is a great example of the behaviourist model of psychology, known as Behaviourism, where the seeable behaviour is what is observed and measured, rather than taking intention, emotion, or thinking into account. These are the internal events that also influence behaviour. Behaviourist view was the most prevalent view in America. However, it was later noted through the development of theories that there is much more that influences behavior, than what is seen or observed. What we think, our previous learning experiences, culture, beliefs, our interactions with others, our environments, all have influence upon behavior. Sometimes language becomes a barrier  to understanding behavior. Having said this I also think that what is most important is the intention of the heart. 

     Sometimes we face an experience or a struggle that involves power relations, and structures. We feel powerless. Sometimes we also have to decide which battles we want to fight. So there could be major factors at play here, with regards to what was said, what was the internal intent, and how the matter was handled. The key is also to hear what is not being said. Also if there is no place for racism in the games, then this is also a challenge for all major leagues to review practices, and curb racism that might be happening. 

Go Astros!!! :) 

     I continue to support the Astro's players, teams, fans, and the city of Houston. Thank you team members for lifting the spirits of your fellow team - mate. No one is perfect, we will get through this together, and we will be stronger. Go Astros, Go Team. I'm proud of how far you've come. I believe in you!!! :) Houston Strong! :) 
​

​Dedication: These thoughts are dedicated to the loss of life that has occurred in Nepal and Mogadishu.

And to all of the fans, team members of the Houston Astros organization. We believe! We are Houston Strong! My thoughts to share with love & kindness! :) 

​Notes: These thoughts were originally hand - written on October 29th, 2017.
Image 1 - Web Link
​Image 2 - Persoanl Collection
Image 3 - Web Link