An American Treasure Passes On

Buck O'Neil, who was an impressive ambassador for his sport as anyone I have ever seen, passed away last night at the age of 94. Of course, Buck was more than just a great ambassador or just a great player; he was a good man, full of kindness, warmth and possessed an indomitable spirit. I think Ken Burns put it best:

"His life reflects the past and contains many of the bitter experiences that our country reserved for men of his color, but there is no bitterness in him," (Burns) said.

"It's not so much that he put that suffering behind him as that he has brought gold and light out of bitterness and despair, loneliness and suffering. He knows he can go farther with generosity and kindness than with anger and hate."

We would all do well to follow Buck's example....