I didn’t want to stop playing catch because I was afraid Emilio would stop telling his stories.
Stories of his nephew Manuel who died in a school shooting in Moses Lake, Washington in 1996.
“That horrible incident made me a better parent. I learned to enjoy this incredible journey of life, each day that we’re given. To love and enjoy your family. God first, then family,” Emilio said.
Stories of his nephew Arturo who pitches for the Memphis Redbirds.
“He pitched here in Springfield, but moved to AAA before we moved here.”
Stories of another nephew Jorge who was the Most Outstanding Player for the Oregon State Beavers in the 2007 College World Series.
This is the nephew who, with the help of his teammates, played a month-long prank on Jeff Francoeur which can be seen in the 7-minute documentary, On Jeff Ears. I was in the library the first time I watched the documentary and had to work hard to stifle my laughs. I think I laughed so hard because, had I been in Francoeur’s shoes, I would have also fallen for the prank. Every year, April 1st is a tough day for us gullible-trusting people.
Emilio told stories of his granddaughter who inspired the move back to Washington. He and his wife had lived in Springfield for two years. He served as the CEO for the Southwest Center for Independent Living and was starting to work on an epic film project when it was time to move.
Emilio and I connected for a game of catch thanks to Larissa and Randy Bacon’s 7 Billion Ones project. “Using art and story to help people really see people, that is brilliant.”
Emilio has a Master’s in Public Administration and Non-Profit Leadership. He’s a passionate visionary full of life and joy who has devoted his life to giving back to the community, helping non-profits to do their best work.
“Get involved! Change only happens by those who have the courage to get involved. We tell stories to empower people to get involved, to give back, to teach others to use their voice.”
Emilio borrowed the new Wilson glove that is being broken in for Isaiah. “The last time I played catch was with my grandson when he was 9. He’s now 14. When I get back home, I’m going to get a new glove. This is wonderful!”
He told me stories of working in the non-profit world, about the importance of making sure everything you do relates to the mission. “It’s about the people, always the people. Not the budgets or bottom line, but advocating for and with people so they can live a good life, so they, too, can give back.”
As we sat in the Bryan family Millennium Falcon with the A/C running on high, Emilio encouraged me in the Catch 365 project.
“I love what you’re doing, this risky journey that you’re taking! Be consistently persistent, don’t you dare give up. I have no reverse in my life. Every day, I keep placing one foot in front of the other. When life gets hard, I take a moment to reflect on the journey this far, and then keep moving forward, one step at a time.”
We finally had to say good-bye as Emilio’s getting ready to drive back to Washington. I wished him safe travels westward and tried to imagine some scenario where I could visit him and see Mount Rainier.
“I’ll be back in Springfield in August, maybe we can meet for coffee?”
Already, I cannot wait to hear more of his stories.
