1. WE ARE ALL UNIQUELY CREATED AND IN THE PROCESS OF BECOMING WHO WE ARE DESIGNED TO BE.

2. BEFORE YOU CAN BE IN THE HALL OF FAME, THE HALL OF FAME HAS TO BE IN YOU.

3. With vision, caring, and skill we see the plan. With cooperation, commitment, and courage we lead the people.

4. Never stop connecting with the One who gave you your dreams. To follow Him is more important than to follow your dreams. 

5.  MORE TEAMS GET BEAT BY ALCOHOL AND BY THEMSELVES THAN BY THE OTHER TEAM. 

6. WE DO NOT INVITE THE GREAT TEAMS TO HUMBLE THE REST. WE INVITE THE HUMBLE TO BECOME GREAT.

7. If you plan to build a house of sportsmanship, you must first dig a deep foundation of character. 

8. WHICH POSITION DO YOU PLAY BEST? IF YOU DON'T KNOW, LET ME SUGGEST THAT YOU GET DOWN ON YOUR KNEES AND ASK. YOU MIGHT DISCOVER YOUR BEST WHILE YOU ARE THERE!

9. WHEN YOU PRAY, IF YOU ACTUALLY THINK AND SPEAK AS IF YOU ARE TALKING TO SOMEONE, YOU ARE.

10. If you respect our history and if you care about our presence, you may wear the trophy of honor in our future. 

11. CHAMPIONS DO NOT WIN EVERY GAME, BUT THE REAL LOSERS ARE THOSE WHO NEVER EVEN SHOW UP AT THE BALLPARK and THOSE WHO ATTACK PEOPLE PERSONALLY.

12.  WE WORK. YOU PLAY.

13. THE BEST LEADER IN SOFTBALL IS THE ONE WHO IS AMONG US NOT THE ONE WHO IS ABOVE US.

14. What matters most in my scorebook is who has played the game with sportsmanship.

15. AWARDING ETERNAL TROPHIES OF HONOR TO GOD GREATLY EXCEEDS THE TEMPORARY REWARD OF RECEIVING ANY TROPHY.

16. WHEN AN UMPIRE MISSES A CALL, HE OR SHE DESERVES TO BE TREATED WITH COURTESY NOT WITH EMOTIONAL ABUSE.

17. IF THERE WAS SUCH A PERSON AS A PERFECT UMPIRE, HOW WOULD AN IMPERFECT PLAYER RECOGNIZE HIM ANYWAY? HE COULD ONLY SEE HIS OWN IMPERFECTIONS. MAYBE THAT PLAYER SHOULD TAKE THE INFIELD OF SAND OUT OF HIS OWN EYES BEFORE TRYING TO REMOVE THE SPECK OF SAND FROM THE UMPIRE'S EYE. DOES THAT SOUND FAMILIAR?

18. A SUCCESSFUL DAY AT THE OFFICE MEANS CARING FOR ALL WHO PARTICIPATE AND HELPING TO MAKE OUR LIVES BETTER THROUGH THE GAME OF SOFTBALL.

19. For every wounded heart, there is a way out of the pain and into the fields of promise and hope. In these fields, the best is yet to be amazing indeed!

20. GENUINE SUCCESS IS NOT ABOUT ACHIEVING HIGH GOALS OR ABOUT DOING GREAT DEEDS, IT'S REAL SIGNIFICANCE IS ABOUT BEING UNSELFISH IN THOUSANDS OF LITTLE THINGS.  

21. Our mission has been tested by both time and circumstances. It began as a sacred promise, but has been transformed from great words of hope into a lifestyle of genuinely caring, a disciplined willingness to continually improve, and a commitment to generously give.

22. Climbing the mountains of accomplishment means more when you take others to the top with you. Who will you bring, when we see you at the top?

23. My friends are like quiet angels who lift me to my feet.

24. EVEN IF YOU DIDN'T GET A LOVE FOR SOFTBALL FROM YOUR PARENTS, YOU CAN STILL LEAVE IT FOR YOUR KIDS AND GRANDKIDS.

25. As the footsteps echo in the Halls of Honor and Honorable Mention, I will ask a simple question. Are those your steps I hear, my friend? I'm listening.

26. Inspiring others to live better lives is the accomplishment of leadership.

27. IF YOUR TEAM IS HEADED IN THE WRONG DIRECTION, U TURNS ARE ALLOWED.

28. WHEN YOU COME TO THE FORK IN THE ROAD, BE SURE TO CLEAN IT WELL BEFORE YOU EAT WITH IT.

LOL

29. My children and my true friends are living messages who will be sent to a time I will not see.

30. Each game we do reveals a lifestyle of courage, faith, and skill which grows the seeds of greatness in the soil of sportsmanship.

31. WINNERS MAKE COMMITMENTS. LOSERS MAKE FALSE PROMISES.

32. TRUTH, RESPONSIBILITY, WISDOM, AND HUMOR - NOW THAT'S HITTING THE CYCLE.

33. THE KIND OF SOFTBALL PLAYER THAT YOU ARE IS A GIFT FROM GOD. THE KIND OF SOFTBALL PLAYER YOU BECOME IS YOUR GIFT TO GOD.

34. WE DO NOT HONOR ANY OF THE MAJOR CREDIT CARDS, BUT WE WILL ACCEPT ALL PLAYERS WHO HONOR THEIR FATHER AND THEIR MOTHER.

35. THE FINGERPRINTS OF GOD ARE IN THE DNA OF EVERY BALLPLAYER HE HAS EVER TOUCHED.

36. AN INVITATION TO PLAY BALL CAN BEGIN MANY FRIENDSHIPS.

37. HUMOR IS THE SHORTEST DISTANCE BETWEEN TWO HEARTS.

38. HE WHO SITS ON THE COUCH OR IN THE STANDS WILL NEVER SCORE A SINGLE RUN.

39. MOTIVATION IS WHEN YOUR NEW DREAMS PUT ON YOUR BALL UNIFORM.

4O. WHEN A COACH RECRUITS PLAYERS, HE NEEDS TO CONSIDER MORE THAN ABILITY OR INABILITY. HE NEEDS TO PRIORITIZE AVAILABILITY AND RELIABILITY.

41. IF THE BIGGEST COMPLAINER DOES THE LEAST WORK, WHAT DO YOU THINK THE ONE WHO COMPLAINS THE LEAST DOES? - HIS JOB - OR SHOULD THIS ONE READ - HER JOB?

42. POSITIVE THOUGHTS, FEELING WELL, OR LOOKING GOOD CAN NOT COMPARE TO TRUSTING IN A PROMISE THAT WILL BE KEPT.

43. A MAN CAN ACCOMPLISH MORE IN ONE DAY AT THE BALLPARK WITH GOD THAN IN A LIFETIME ANYWHERE WITHOUT HIM.

44. The only way to accurately accept your unique role on a team and in a league is to make the reference point of your life Someone, not some win.

45. A MAN WILL DO WELL IN AVOIDING OTHER PLAYERS OR COACHES WHO STIFLE HIS DREAMS. SOME WILL DO THAT TO YOU, BUT SUPPORTIVE LEADERS WILL HELP YOU TO IMPROVE AND MAYBE TO EVEN BECOME GREAT.

46. MAYBE THEY (#45) DON'T UNDERSTAND THAT IF YOU HOLD A MAN DOWN, YOU HAVE TO STAY DOWN WITH HIM.

47. DAD YOU WERE RIGHT. IT'S NOT WHETHER YOU WIN OR LOSE, BUT HOW YOU PLAY THE GAME. I MISS YOU AND I CAN ONLY IMAGINE THE NEXT TIME WE WILL PLAY CATCH AGAIN.

48. WHILE OUR CULTURE DEIFIES THE LESSER GOD OF TECHNOLOGY, WE WOULD DO WELL TO REALIZE THAT WE ARE ALL LIVING KEYBOARDS TOUCHED BY THE BREATH OF GOD. THE TIMELY CHALLENGE FOR EACH KEYBOARD IS TO WRITE LOVE LETTERS TO ALL AND HATE MAIL TO NO ONE.

49. A COACH ASKED HIS SOFTBALL TEAM ,"WHAT IS THE MEANING OF LOVING - KINDNESS?" A RED HEADED FIRST BASEMAN REPLIED, " IF I WAS REALLY THIRSTY AND YOU GAVE ME A DRINK OF WATER, THAT WOULD BE KINDNESS, BUT IF SOMEONE IS GIVEN A WHOLE BOTTLE OF COLD WATER, THAT WOULD BE LOVING KINDNESS."

50. It's not the stars, the trophies, or the t-shirts that brings honor to softball players. It's the scars.

51. The test of softball leadership is passed when the players leave the park and do something that honors God with their lives.

52.  It's not what you accomplish, but who you become that really counts.

53. WHAT'S WORKING?" IS A FAR SUPERIOR QUESTION TO 'WHAT'S NOT WORKING?' AND LISTENING TO THE ANSWER IS EVEN BETTER.  

54. COLOR IS ONLY SKIN DEEP, BUT BEAUTIFUL CHARACTER LIVES ON THE INSIDE.

55. Whenever you make one, declare war on errors, then smile.

56. CHARACTER WHICH PRODUCES HOPE WILL REVEAL OUR TRUEST IDENTITIES AND CREATE OUR LASTING LEGACIES. 

57. HOPE IS NOT A FUTURE EVENT AS MUCH AS A REALITY PRESENT IN A LIFE WHERE THE BEST IS YET TO BE.

58. When an ordinary man does extraordinary things, he makes a difference in his lifetime and leaves a legacy for generations.

59. ABILITY CAN LEAD TO CHAMPIONSHIPS, BUT CHARACTER PRODUCES DYNASTIES.

60. NO PLAYER WILL EVER BE COLD IN YOUR SHADOW, IF HE IS STANDING IN THE PRESENCE OF YOUR LIGHT.

61. A PLAYER MAY NOT TASTE THE SALTY FLAVOR OF SOFTBALL, UNTIL HE SWEATS IN THE BIG INNING.

62. ASK A DIAMOND IF PRESSURE IS BAD. THE FEAR OF PRESSURE IS THE REAL PROBLEM.

63. WORDS OF WISDOM WILL OUTLIVE OTHERS BY AT LEAST THREE GENERATIONS.

64. WORKING TOGETHER IN THE FIELDS OF HEART AND SOUL TRANSCENDS PLAYING TOGETHER ON ANY FIELD OF DREAMS.

65. Everything at the ballpark has its own time and its own season. When your time arrives, will you?

66. STEVE MORRIS said, "IF HE RENTS IT, THEY WILL COME."

67. SOFTBALL CHAMPIONS BELONG TO SOFTBALL HISTORY.

68. SOMETIMES HE CALMS THE STORM AND SOMETIMES LETS THE STORM RAGE WHILE HE CALMS THE PLAYERS.

69. Some softball players and umpires brings happiness wherever they go and others bring happiness whenever they go.

70. The most important component in communication is the one who is listening and not the one who is speaking or even his eloquence in saying it.

71. AN MVP'S GREATEST ASSET IS NOT HIS ABILITY TO PLAY THE GAME, BUT HIS ABILITY TO LOVE THE ONE WHO CREATED HIS LIFE AND HIS GAME.

72. A MAN CAN PLAY A BETTER GAME WHEN HE MEETS A DEEPER, TRUER SELF THAT KNOWS ITS POTENTIAL AND ITS LIMITS.

73. AN ORDINARY MAN CAN ACHIEVE THE EXTRAORDINARY WHEN GOD'S LOVE SO PENETRATES HIS heart and SOUL THAT HE IS STIRRED TO EXPLORE THE DEPTHS OF HIS IDENTITY, INTEGRITY, VOCATION, AND RELATIONSHIPS AND TO EXPRESS THEM IN HIS LIFE.

74. The greatest player I ever met did not have as much talent, ability, or skill as many others, but he was available, remained aware of what his teammates needed, did his best with what he had, was consistently dedicated, stayed totally trustworthy, and maintained a low profile.

75. Some will not GET THIS, but our top priority has never been the gold in the wallet, but was, is, and will be the Golden Rule in the heart!

76. WHO ONE IS - IS NOT AS SIGNIFICANT AS WHOSE ONE IS. "WHAT IS MAN THAT YOU ARE MINDFUL OF HIM ... YOU MADE HIM A LITTLE LOWER THAN THE ANGELS AND CROWNED HIM WITH GLORY AND HONOR." PSALM 8:4

77. JESUS IS MY LIFE - SOFTBALL IS MY GAME.

78. WHAT A MAN RECEIVES FROM SOFTBALL CAN BE A CALL TO LIVING LEADERSHIP AND THE CHOICE OF LASTNG LEADERSHIP, BUT WHAT HE GIVES TO THE GAME CAN BE THE FAITHFULNESS OF LOVING LEADERSHIP.

79. I do not believe that God ever counts my trophies or my championship t-shirts, but I do believe He counts our scars, our tears, and our prayers.

80. THE BOTTOM LINE ISN'T A LINE. IT'S A POINT. THE POINT WHERE A MAN COMES TO THE END OF HIMSELF AND TO THE BEGINNING OF HIS PURPOSES IN LIFE - TO SERVE, TO LEAD, AND TO LOVE.

81. THE BEST DREAMS ARE NOT PICTURES CREATED WHEN WE SLEEP,  BUT REALITY VIDEOS PRODUCED WHEN WE ARE WIDE AWAKE.

82. WE INVITE DIVERSITY INTO OUR SOFTBALL FAMILY NOT BECAUSE IT IS POLITICALLY CORRECT, BUT BECAUSE DIVERSE VIEWPOINTS ARE TO BE CELEBRATED AND NOT TO BE FEARED.

83. ONLY THRU THE LENS OF HUMILITY CAN THE EYES OF SOFTBALL SEE TRUE GREATNESS.

84. OVERWHELMING GRATITUDE is what I feel for those connected to this game who have touched my HEART AND SOUL.

85. SOFTBALL IS A GAME OF THE MIND, HEART, AND SOUL.  IT'S CHARACTER CAN EVEN OFFER GRACE FOR THE UNTHOUGHTFUL, THE NUMB, OR THE HEARTLESS.

86. OUR TIME BELONGS TO THE COMMITTED ABOVE THE TALENTED.

87. REALITY REVEALS ITSELF IN PASSIONATE, WELL DISCIPLINED CONVERSATIONS ABOUT ISSUES THAT MATTER.

88. The importance of delaying gratification is amplified by the facts that in every life some days the rain will fall and some nights the lights will fail to shine at the BALLPARK. 

89. AS THE LAST OUT OF THE LAST INNING OF THE LAST GAME IS COUNTED WE WILL LEAVE NO MEMORIAL OF FOOTPRINTS IN THE INFIELD SAND, BUT WE WILL LEAVE WORDS ABOUT THIS GAME WHICH MAY BE SPOKEN FOR GENERATIONS.

90. LIVING LEADERSHIP SHOWS LOVING INSPIRATION AND REALISTIC ASPIRATIONS.

91. The best way to speak to others is not with dreams or visions, but with God-pleasing thoughts that transform into simple words of clarity for their ears and simple acts of charity for their eyes.

92. CARING HEARTS WIN RELATIONSHIPS. COURAGEOUS HEARTS WIN BATTLES. COMMITTED HEARTS WIN THE FUTURE.

93. I KNOW THAT I KNOW THAT I KNOW THAT THE FAITH INSIDE ME WAS ONCE A LIGHTNING BUG, BUT BY THE MERCY OF GOD HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED INTO JUST PLAIN LIGHTNING.

94. The most challenging choice is to bravely choose who we will become. 

95. WHEN YOU LOVE A PERSON, THEIR LIFE IS A GIFT TO YOU AND YOUR LOVE IS A GIFT TO THEM.

96. GODLY PARENTS, TEACHERS, MENTORS, MINISTERS, SOFTBALL CHAMPIONS, AND REAL FRIENDS CAN NOT FILL YOUR HEART. THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN DO THAT IS GOD HIMSELF.

97. My challenge to ballplayers is a simple one, echoed by millions around the world both on and off the field. May the way we live our lives be a blessing to God and a blessing to each other, and may God Bless America!!!

98. MY DELIVERER IS COMING AND HE ISN'T CARRYING A PIZZA. HE IS CARRYING ME.

LOL

99. PLEASE DO NOT BELIEVE THAT I THINK THESE SAYINGS ARE JUST FOR ME. THEY ARE AN AUTHENTIC REPRESENTATION OF MY THOUGHTS. THEY ALSO REVEAL WORDS HIDDEN DEEP IN MY HEART FOR A LONG TIME. THEY ARE NOW WRITTEN TO GIVE YOU CONFIDENCE, HOPE, AND CLARITY. THE GREATEST OF THESE IS CLARITY. WHEN THEY ECHO WHAT GOD HAS ALREADY WRITTEN, THEY DO NOT MAKE MUCH OF ME. THEY ARE MAKING AND WILL MAKE MUCH OF HIM.

100. LOVE ALL. WORSHIP ONE. Sometimes at the ballpark I feel the awesome presence of God. Could it be that He does not live in ornate or sacred buildings, but he lives among His people?

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I’M ALIVE - OBL IS DEAD!

Amazing! How can it be true? Eleven years ago today I was home from the hospital, unable to speak or to sleep, barely able to breathe, in the worst pain of my life, and very near to meeting my Maker. Today, Osama Bin Laden is dead, but I'm alive!

Will you join with me to celebrate life more than death? The far more significant death does not belong to OBL, but to the man who actually came back from death. Every day I live gives me a chance to express my deepest joy and to honor Him, Jesus Christ. Because of His continual blessings on my life, other people are encouraged to grow in countless ways. Inspiring others to live better lives is the accomplishment of His leadership, not mine. While it is true that my work as a leader in softball has never been more rewarding, there are other things which greatly surpass the value of this career. Far more important is the fact that my wife and I are deeper in love now that we have ever been. Also, my daughter is a radiant young lady whose character and style cause her dad to shine with a heartfelt peacefulness. She is a living message who will soar like an eagle and be sent to a time I will not see. Likewise, my best friend has recently reminded me again that relationships are always more important than accomplishments. He is absolutely right. What a great opportunity we have in this life to give credit where credit is due. Thank you God, wife, family, and friends in softball, community, and church for all that you have been, are, and are going to be in our relationship. For every wounded heart there is a way out of the pain and into the fields of promise and hope. In these fields the best is yet to be amazing indeed!  To celebrate life, to love people, and to honor God transcend any temporary happiness from the demise of one evil man. I AM Ralph Hall and I approve of this message. May 2, 2011

"I do not believe that God ever counts my trophies or my championship t-shirts, but I do believe He counts our scars, our tears, and our prayers."

#101. Inspiring others to live better lives is the accomplishment of leadership.
#102. Relationships are always more important than accomplishments.
#103. For every wounded heart, there is a way out of the pain and into the fields of promise and hope. In these fields the best is yet to be amazing indeed!
#104. Our time has arrived. Have you?
#105. My children are living messages who will be sent to a time I will not see.
#106. To CONNECT with your DESTINY do one thing, LEAD.
#107. The most important component in communication is the one who is listening and not the one who is speaking or even his eloquence in saying it.
#108. The gate of destiny swings on the hinges of trust.
#109. It won't work unless you do.
#110. Connect with it? How about connect with 10? Play softball!
#111. Tears of grace will water the roots of freedom.
#112. On this day, September 11, 2001, many have been given A NEW DESTINY.
#113 My challenge to ballplayers is a simple one, echoed by millions around the world both on and off the field. May the way we live our lives be a blessing to God and a blessing to each other, and may God Bless America!!!

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KISS THE LIGHT. RISE AND REACH. MR. HALL IS HERE TO TEACH

MY BEST TEACHER
He cares about me.
He loves me for who I am.
He smiles at me with eyes that shine.
He thinks that I am a gift.
He reads and writes the best books.
He listens to me while I share my dreams with Him.
He admires my strengths, talents, and skills, but mostly he treasures my positive attitude.
He frames my picture in His room.
He honors me for my character and not just for my grades.
He desires to be near me, to hug me, to protect me.
He reaches to shake my hand or to give me five.
He wants to talk to me and to have me talk to Him.
He tells me that I make a difference in His life.
He knows me well enough to understand what my hurts are.
He feels closer to me sometimes than my own DNA.
He communicates more truth in one lesson than the Psychic Network can in one millennium.
He invites me to His home to meet His beautiful bride and His lovely child.
He walks with me taking lively steps in the right direction.
He treats me tenderly like I am in His family.
He takes me out to the ballgame.
He meets me at the flagpole.
He lives to laugh with me when I laugh.
He yearns to transform my passion into compassion.
He needs for me to trust Him - He trusts me.
He needs for me to support others as He has supported me.
He gives me confidence and hope and love.
He generously gives me an extraordinary kind of wisdom.
He enlightens my mind with a museum of joyous classroom memories.
He warms my heart in knowing that He will also be in my future.
He sends the music that reminds me of His love.
He shines with a heartfelt peacefulness when I say three simple words to Him,
"Thank you, Father." HE IS MY BEST TEACHER!!!

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As we continue our 19th year of service, let me direct you to the first mandate of our mission statement, to promote sportsmanship. While everyone may have an idea about happiness, not many have clear thoughts about promoting the highest virtue in softball, sportsmanship. This virtue is more than a way to lasting happiness in our lives. It is the key ingredient in the recipe of success. It is the bulls eye on the target of our mission. It is a nonnegotiable and a consistent truth. This virtue is goodness expressed courageously in words and deeds on issues of right and wrong. The good news today is that the best Virtues are yet to be.
 

VIRTUE IN THE DARK

On Feb. 25th, 2001, the lights did not come on at one of the ballparks. This happened another time, about 10 years ago. The character of the players, umpires, and all parties involved gets revealed at times like this. A decade ago the rage, anger, and frustration were unbelievably sickening. However, someone or something has changed at the ballpark. While there was some disappointment and a little frustration, for the most part there was a general acceptance of the fact that some things are just not under our control.

We can remember five things about dark times. 1. Dark times are inevitable. Every ballpark or person will eventually have them. 2.They are also unpredictable and can happen any night. 3.They are impartial and will happen to the good, the bad, and the ugly. 4.They are temporary and will pass. We hope that they pass for at least ten more years. 5.They are purposeful and remind us at times like this that character is more important than comfort or convenience.

Not if, but when a dark time comes again, I am resolved to refuse to be discouraged, to remember that God is with us, and to rely on Him for protection. Rather than wallow in my own negative emotions, I hope to focus on His power and presence. After all, just who is it that is in control anyway in the year 2001, the year of virtue?
 

1. Virtue bonds teams together when there are deep disappointments or unmet expectations.
2. Virtue opens the eyes of our hearts to see solutions to problems rather than blindly quitting or blaming someone else.
3. Virtue means that a man is as good as his word. His promises are kept.
4. Virtue creates integrity for a bottom line.
5. Virtue looks beyond self to find value in others.
6. Virtue values people over rules, power, pleasure, or possessions.
7. Virtue leads to peaceful sleep.
8. Virtue does not have to remember lies.
9. Virtue understands the importance of delaying gratification.
10. Virtue is about the more important things in life than self or selfishness.
 

Once in a while an opportunity comes along that almost sounds like more fun than playing ball.
A friend of mine, Joe Grisaffi, WAS looking for ballplayers to be in a movie - THE M.C. HAMMER STORY. The baseball scenes were shot locally, on the first Tuesday in June. Joe asked me to help him find some baseball players to be filmed as extras. Those who were interested joined me in a day to remember at Enron Field. I'm looking forward to seeing several of my friends on the big movie screen. It was fun! Thanks Joe and Howard.
 

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My thanks go to Drayton McLane for asking me to recruit the man we most respect to throw out the first pitch for the World Series this year. The two goals he set for his organization are similar to those of Texas Softball Hall of Fame. I am here to build Champions and to promote the principals reflected in our Mission Statement. In this year of virtue my challenge for you is to join me in these goals.

Ralph,

Thank you so much for getting in contact with Dr. Graham's office about throwing out the first pitch for the World Series. It nice to have loyal Astros fans, like yourself, that are always willing to help the team, and I know that Drayton is thankful as well. I will pass along your e-mail to him and I know he appreciates all your help. Please let me know if their is anything that I can help you with. Thank you again and I look forward to visiting with you again, hopefully at the World Series if not sooner.

Kyle Dawson

Houston Astros

Account Executive

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As a response to the events of September 11th, 2001, we wish to express our deepest condolences to those who may have suffered the loss of family or friends in New York City or Washington D.C. We pray for the comfort and healing of those who have been injured. We mourn, weep, and grieve with you, knowing that tears of grace will water the roots of freedom. My heart was especially touched by the two little girls who were holding up a picture of their missing dad while searching for him. May every hurt be turned into a halo. On this day many have been given A NEW DESTINY.

While we face death together, we can recognize the reality that death is not the last word, LIFE IS. We can have a confidence that transcends death. The worst thing is not to die, but to have nothing in your heart worth living for. As American ballplayers we have been given abundant opportunities to run, throw, catch, hit, strategize, laugh, make friends, play like a team, celebrate together, win graciously, lose with dignity, play fairly, sharpen our mental saws, and much much more. As we return to participate in the greatest national pass time may it be with a deeper appreciation of life. My challenge to ballplayers is a simple one, echoed by millions around the world both on and off the field. May the way we live our lives be a blessing to God and a blessing to each other, and may God Bless America!!! Play Ball!
 

May He not just stand beside her and guide her, but may He also shine the way before her, lighting the pathway to a new destiny.
 

So, where does America look in times like this? We do not look to those who babble nonsense or to those who masquerade behind free speech in order to pursue an extremely selfish agenda. We look to leaders. Freedom, trust, and leadership will overcome. In our relationships as humans created in the image of God and as Americans who believe in freedom we are now more united than ever.
 

We also look to our nations leader, George W. Bush, who will need a deeper wisdom and determination than we can even imagine. The words of wisdom he chose from antiquity remind us that," even though I walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, I will fear no evil." He also reminded us that," neither death or life, angels or demons, neither the present or the future, or any powers, neither height or depth, or anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God."
Mr. President, with faith you can move mountains and when faith is combined with the U.S. military, some mountains are about to move. Terrorism, fear, and selfishness are not the way to accomplish anything. Evil will not win. While we cannot totally understand evil, we know that God is not the author of evil. Root out evil, Mr. President, and we will root for you. If they can't be brought to justice, we will support you as you bring justice to them. We will pray for you.

http://www.PresidentialPrayerTeam.org

My thanks to the President of the United Staes of America for this e-mail message. Our President understands and believes in the real meaning of Christmas. I'm glad. Feel free to forward his meaningful Christmas greeting to your friends and loved ones.
 

"Christmas is a time of wonder and joy, of generosity and peace, that brings family and friends together in celebration and song. We sing old hymns and familiar carols, we show love for others in the giving of gifts, and we observe the hallowed traditions that make the season special. This year in the midst of extraordinary times, our Nation has shown the world that though there is great evil, there is a greater good. Americans have given of themselves, sacrificing to help others and showing the spirit of love and sharing that is so much a part of the Christmas seaon. According to the Gospel of Luke, two thousand years ago, the savior of mankind came into the world. Christians believe that Jesus' birth was the incarnation of God on earth, opening the door to new hope and eternal life.

At Christmas time, Christians celebrate God's love revealed to the world through Christ. And the message of Jesus is one that all Americans can embrace this holiday season -- to love one another. This Christmas we remember those who are without their loved ones. They continue to be in our hearts and prayers. May they experience peace, and may they find hope. And as we again celebrate Christ's birth,

may the glorious light of God's goodness and love shine forth from our land. Laura joins me in wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May God's blessings of peace be upon us and upon the world."

GEORGE W. BUSH

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2002 - Ralphisms
1. As we pray for peace, hope for peace, and even fight for peace, we need to consider with grateful astonishment, God's promise of ultimate peace to all those who trust Him.
2. The time has come to write, "In God we trust" in our hearts and not just on our money.
3. I'm glad George Bush is President.
4. If you are going to dream, dream well. Dreams have a way of becoming true.
5. The best way to speak to others is not with dreams or visions, but with God-pleasing thoughts that transform into simple words of clarity for their ears and simple acts of charity for their eyes.
6. As good as it felt to play ball with my dad, I can only imagine how I will feel when I get to play ball with my heavenly Father. The joy will not end in 7 innings or 55 minutes. It will never, never, never end.
7. Sometimes at the ballpark I feel the awesome presence of God. Could it be that He does not live in ornate or sacred buildings, but he lives among His people?
8. Sometimes I want to either stand or rest in silence. Other times I feel like dancing or making a joyful noise.
9.Another word for peace is Shalom. It means far more than peace of mind or a cease-fire between enemies. It means wholeness, delight, and gladness. When we desire or pray for peace, we are really wanting more than the absence of conflict or even conflict management. We are longing for a deeper more fulfilling experience. While a recreational softball program can only partially meet that need, the deeper significance of our own lives will reflect it. After all is said, done, and played, I'm glad that it is HE who has made peace on earth. By being His people and the players on His fields, we extend more than a dimension of the American spirit. We also give a spirit of peace and gladness which many need, but only a few will find. While we may rent 5 places this year, the fields of a thousand generations of Shalom belong to Him. The time has come to write, "In God we trust", in our hearts and not just on our money. As we pray for peace, hope for peace, and even fight for peace, we need to consider with grateful astonishment, God's promise of ultimate peace to all those who trust Him. I'm glad.

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THE FATHER'S SEASON 2002 - Editorial

INSTEAD OF HONORING OUR FATHERS ON ONE SPECIAL DAY, MY CHALLENGE IS FOR US TO BEGIN THINKING THIS WAY DURING THE WHOLE SEASON. MY NEW GOAL AND HIGHER PURPOSE FOR THIS SEASON WILL BE TO DO THAT VERY THING, NAMELY, TO HONOR MY FATHER. WILL YOU JOIN ME AS THE FATHER'S SEASON BECOMES A REALITY IN OUR EXPERIENCE, IN OUR MINDS, AND IN OUR DAY TO DAY LIVES? LET'S SEIZE THE SEASON.
IN THE MOMENTS OF DEEPEST PAIN OR IN THE TIMES OF GREATEST JOY, MANY BALLPLAYERS SIMPLY DO NOT KNOW WHAT TO SAY. IF I COULD TEACH THEM HOW TO BEGIN, WE WOULD SAY TOGETHER TWO SIMPLE WORDS, "OUR FATHER." R. HALL 6-17-02

LET'S ROLL out of any terrible situation, out of any pain, out of any self-centeredness, out of any self destructive behaviors, out of any self- inflicted disease, and out of any self- imposed limitations. "LETS' ROLL." LET'S ROLL into the fields of hope, into the base paths of peace, into the life of freedom, into the promises of the American Dream, and into the generosity of spirit that compels us to offer our very lives for a higher purpose than terror. LET'S ROLL to the ballpark that offers us more than a quickly fading win or a false chemical feeling of peace. LET'S ROLL to the location where we find leadership which challenges us to rise up to a higher calling and to participate with worthy opponents whom we treat with dignity and respect. LET'S ROLL to the place where we honor one another with positive thoughts, with words that encourage, and with acts that express care and concern for the unskilled beginner as well as for the multitalented veteran. LET'S ROLL to the place where umpires are not verbally or emotionally abused, but are appreciated for their often overlooked contributions and dedication to the game. Then, after the games LET'S ROLL to our homes, wives, children, family, fellow Americans, friends around the world, and jobs with a recharged battery of energy and a restored spirit of determination to do what we have been put on this planet to do. The kind of player that you are is a gift from God, but the kind of player you become is your gift to God. LET'S ROLL by giving today. If you know what it means to give, call me now, but don't say hello or good-bye, just say, "LET'S ROLL." I can only imagine what it will be like to gather together at the ballparks with like-minded men and women who believe in the simple yet profound words, "LET'S ROLL."
 

I still think and feel that the best is yet to be. Bayland Park, Cullen Park, Houston Sportsplex, New Territory, and Papa Blakely's have all provided opportunities for us to promote either Leagues or Tournament play in 2002. Details of how and when we will play ball may be found at either TOURNAMENTS or LEAGUES , respectively. With many great events belonging to history and with increased opportunities today, we also see many possibilities for umpires and players on the near horizon. We are still in the process of adding 1 more umpire. To apply for this position, please contact Ralph Hall at 281-313-0789 or send an e-mail to ralph@txsoftballhalloffame.com . Please call or e-mail your teammates, coach, friends, coworkers, church, relatives, civic groups, or neighbors to tell them about this opportunity to work. Let me encourage you to get involved and bring others to join us. LET'S ROLL.

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"LET'S ROLL !" - THE NEXT CHAPTER 9-11- & 1
 

While much was said and done in the aftermath of the tragedy of 9-11-01, it seems to me that it is more than appropriate to revisit some of the issues and solutions associated with the events that transpired. The heroes who put their very lives on the line have awakened a need for all men and women to rise up in the face of danger or difficulty. That battle against evil extends beyond the front lines at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. It runs thru a courageous man in the White House and impacts us daily in our hearts, heads, and homes. For all my days left on this planet I will choose to be part of someone and something far greater than terror. Will you join me ?

Join with me in participation in the greatest national pastime by playing ball. We will play with a renewed sense of sportsmanship, with greater respect for our opponents, and a deeper appreciation of umpires who care more for relationships and the game itself than the paychecks. Will you join me in protecting the integrity of the game we love from acts of violence, threats of destruction, and even thoughts born in malice, vengeance, or jealousy?

Will you come to the ballpark seeking to do more than to win a game? Will you cone to be part of a caring atmosphere that seeks to enhance the well being of all who participate? Something beyond me, bigger than you, and better than terror will happen then. It's called character and character produces hope. Be there!

Being there enables us to bring honor to those who rooted us in this lifestyle. Whether it was your dad, family, brother, cousins, coach, friends, or neighbors, those who poured the desire into us to be part of this game should be honored by how we play the game. The spirit of doing will honor the spirits of our real heroes. Those who give their lives and who live their lives this way can offer an amazing kind of future to their children and grandchildren. As we connect with our past and our future in ways that bring honor to the softball community we will discover higher purposes than terror. We will be part of a dream deeply associated with the dreams of Americans and Texans. We will be winners of men more than winners of games. We will be a people who the are transformed out of the pain and a nation who enters into the fields of promise and hope. In these fields the best is yet to be indeed. I will be there. Will You be there for the next chapter? LET'S ROLL!

 Being filled with a heartfelt confidence, an optimistic hope, and a passionate love for the game inspires me to an even higher level of leadership. LET'S ROLL.
 

We have much to CELEBRATE! While organizing more than 1,087 EVENTS in our 20 years of moving and shaking, we have earned the respect and appreciation of thousands who love the game as much as we do. With 823 Tournaments and 257 Leagues that belong to history and with 7 current Leagues, the time has come to focus on more productive goals and greater effective priorities. LET'S ROLL.
We join the rest of the world and world history by now living with an ongoing threat in the context of everyday life. This is new for most people, and they are not sure at times how to handle it. To process it in the most healthy manner, we can trust what someone once said, "Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid."
 

As we pray for peace, hope for peace, and even fight for peace, we need to consider with grateful astonishment, God's promise of ultimate peace to all those who trust Him. LET'S ROLL.
Our mission is the same. I'm GLAD. Our dedication to those principles which govern our business and our lives will not be compromised. In a world shaken by terrorism, gladness is at a premium. For those of us who have had the privilege of.
While you are reading this edited e-mail, which I actually sent to an individual, you might want to keep in mind that it has been raining for 8 straight days and nights.

The procedure for you and all teams to follow is to call 281-313-0789-0-6 for the weather line. If you wish to leave a message about Tournaments, mailbox 1 is set up for that purpose. By the way, mailbox 4 is for my wife and daughter, not for business calls. Please respect these boundaries.

All decisions with regard to rain must be made in a timely manner, not too soon or not to late. I would not ordinarily make the call this soon, but because of 8 days of rain and as a result of discussions with the owner, a decision can be made earlier than usual this time. In the future please follow my policies and procedures. They have proven to be the most effective in getting the games played.

However, for me to be expected to call anxiety filled, ill-mannered, or demanding coaches are unrealistic expectations of which this man will refuse to give in to. They are a distraction from the higher priorities needed to do my work well. Futhermore, they are clues, factors, and evidence of a lack of willingness or inability to comply. Those who can not or do not follow my leadership are not welcome. My perception of them is that if they are argumentative, abusive, or even abrasive off the field, then they are a high risk for treating umpires, opponents, and myself with disrespect, emotional abuse, and are likely to behave in numerous unsportsmanlike ways. While that kind of attitude and action may be tolerated at a ballpark that is desperate for business, The Texas Softball Hall Of Fame has no need whatsoever for any coach, team, or individual who can not or does not follow with trust and cooperation. This is demonstrated in a style which shows itself to be compatible with the goals and quality of this organization. Like the U.S. Marines and Army we are looking for a few, good men and women who want to be all that they can be. Like the U.S. Air Force, we will do preemptive strikes as ordered by the Commander in Chief to prevent any perceived terroristic threats to our people.

Time will tell who our real friends are, Can I count on you to be one of them?.

Ralph Hall, Jr.

Words of life, spoken or written in various ways reveal more than self or purpose, they require RESPONSE. To be acquainted with our work or even filled with a spirit of trust are not enough. Responsible actions are. As the old saying goes, "actions speaks louder than words." They do. They keep their promises, their word, their commitments. They honor others. They pay the bills on time. Above all else, they guard the heart.
On the other hand, reactions require less thought than responses. They frequently are accusatory in tone, blaming of others, abusive in style, and provide no solutions. They often irrigate or hide their truer selves behind a chemical. Those who practice these things are not worthless; they are less than that. My CHALLENGE as we are rapidly approaching the end of this year is to call for RESPONSE not REACTION. Sons of Softball, who will mount the white horse of destiny and ride to the battle with me?
LET'S ROLL!
TIME FOR A CHANGE

As the weather turns cooler, the Christmas lights shine, and many teams have stopped playing, I would like to take just a few minutes to reflect on 2002, the year of gladness. Indeed there are many things which make me glad. For life itself, for my family, for real friends and their families, for relationships, for opportunities, for freedom, for new friends, for greater accomplishments, for Christmas itself, and for much more, I am genuinely glad.

Rising from the hospital bed after flat lining seven times thirty one months ago gives me a realistic reminder that life is short. Families where committment to the well-being of each other is tested by time and circumstance are an ongoing joy. Friends who inspire, support, and encourage are friends forever. Relationships with umpires, players, coaches, collegues, and aquaintences are still increasing in number and in quality. As a Co-Founder of The Presidential Prayer Team I am amazed at the growth and impact of this organization on the lives of those for whom we pray. Truely, working in the field of souls transcends playing on the fields of dreams. For the success of my friend, George W. Bush, I am delighted. For other men and women like him, who humbly give credit to God and who do not need to have the attitude or actions of self glorification, I am most thankful. One of those men is pictured here receiving a t-shirt from Texas Softball Hall of Fame, my new friend, Lance Berkman.

So as we move closer to 2003 I invision multiple opportunities for growth as a man, husband, father, friend, leader, and in many ways yet to be discovered. While "Let's Roll" symbolized our lifestyle in 2002, for 2003 I am waiting for guidance into a new destiny. The time for a change is near.

My thanks to the President of the United States of America for this e-mail message. Our President understands and believes in the real meaning of Christmas. I'm glad. Feel free to forward his meaningful Christmas greeting to your friends and loved ones.

During Christmas, we gather with family and friends to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. As God's only Son, Jesus came to Earth and gave His life so that we may live. His actions and His words remind us that service to others is central to our lives and that sacrifice and unconditional love must guide us and inspire us to lead lives of compassion, mercy, and justice.

The true spirit of Christmas reflects a dedication to helping those in need, to giving hope to those in despair, and to spreading peace and understanding throughout the Earth. As we share love and enjoy the traditions of this holiday, we are also grateful for the men and women of our Armed Forces who are working to defend freedom, secure our homeland, and advance peace and safety around the world.

This Christmas, may we give thanks for the blessings God has granted to our Nation and in each of our lives. May the joy of the holidays renew our commitment to working together for a future of peace, opportunity, and hope.

Laura joins me in wishing you a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year.

GEORGE W. BUSH
LIFE as we know it has it's defining moments. Birthdays, wedding days, Holidays, Tournament Championship days, League Championship days, the birthdays of our children, and death days of grandparents, parents, or in some cases our children or friends can be such times. Indeed, our own final day of life can arrive sooner than we imagine.
 

In the year 2001, the day of September 11th will be remembered as a turning point in the history of our nation. At that point in time we were introduced to some new heroes, discovered multitudes who care, and learned many unforgettable lessons.
 

In the year 2002, there was one day that holds a deep personal significance for me, NOVEMBER 22nd. On that day I heard my Father sing.
 

For the success a few days before this for George W. Bush, I am delighted. Yet, that is not what caused Him to sing. Likewise, for other men and women like him, who humbly give credit to God and who do not need to have the attitude or actions of self glorification, I am thankful. One of those men is pictured here receiving a t-shirt from Texas Softball Hall of Fame, Lance Berkman. As good as this is, it's still not what caused Him to sing.
 

What then caused Him to break into a heartfelt smile and do something He so rarely does, sing? The answer is both simple and profound - MY SON HAS COME HOME.
 

SOUND THE TRUMPET LOUD AND CLEAR THIS TIME! CELEBRATE ! CELEBRATE WITH ME ! PLAY BALL ! PLAY HARD ! PLAY LONG ! SET ANOTHER PLACE AT THE TABLE ! EVERYBODY DANCE AND SHOUT FOR JOY ! IRRIGATE THE ROOTS OF FREEDOM WITH TEARS OF GRACE AND TRUTH ! OPEN THE GATES OF HEAVEN ! HE'S ALIVE ! I'M ALIVE ! PRAYERS ARE ANSWERED ! TRUST WITHOUT FEAR LEADS ! HOPE AND DREAMS UNITE ! LOVE CAN NOT HAVE A HEART WHICH STAYS MILES AND MILES AWAY ! I HEARD MY FATHER SING TO ME THAT DAY ! THIS WAS NO ORDINARY DAY ! ! ! MY SON HAS COME HOME !

In the year 2003, HAPPY NEW YEAR is more than a customary old saying. It is a precious gift and an awesome reality present in the lives of those whose ears hear the singing of FREEDOM'S SONGS !

Ralph Hall, Jr.
 

In 2003 it all starts with caring. Any other path only leads to a dead end. While the general theme for 2002 was the year of Gladness, the theme for 2003 will be The Year of Purpose. While we want to make sure that we don't miss out on the greatest American pass time, we also want to make sure to not miss out on the point of life. Playing and living on purpose will guide our play and our lives to greatness. Everyone who wants to invision their field of dreams, to discern the purpose of playing, and to run the base paths of destiny is welcome. Softball life is given to us for discovery, adventure, and purpose. To simplify what I am writing about, just ask yourself a question, "What am I here for?" Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers go out for the crew of the Challenger and for their families. Your purpose will extend far beyond the few years you spent on this planet. You were made to sore above us and to last forever. Our purpose is always greater than our problems. R. Hall

IN THE TWO YEARS SINCE THE TRAGIC EVENTS OF 9/11 THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA HAS CHANGED SOME THINGS, BUT OTHERS REMAIN THE SAME. HOMELAND SECURITY, GOVERNMENT POLICIES, MILITARY DEFENDERS, AND CITIZEN READINESS ARE ALL BETTER PREPARED TO HANDLE EMERGENCIES. HOWEVER, WE NEED TO BE CAREFUL THAT WE DO NOT GO ABOUT OUR DAILY LIVES AS IF NOTHING IS WRONG. GENTLEMEN, WE ARE AT WAR. THERE ARE INDIVIDUALS, GROUPS, AND EVEN NATIONS WHO WOULD LOVE NOTHING MORE THAN TO SEE OUR WAY OF LIFE DESTROYED. I HAVE SOME NEWS FOR THEM AND FOR YOU. THAT IS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN. OUR PURPOSE IT ALWAYS GREATER THAN OUR PROBLEMS. AMERICA HAS RISEN FROM THE ASHES OF YESTERDAY TO DEFEAT SOME OF THE MOST EVIL FORCES ON THIS PLANET. WE WILL PASSIONATELY MOVE INTO A FUTURE WHERE FREEDOM, TRUTH, AND JUSTICE THRIVE. WE ARE NOT FINISHED AND OUR BEST DAYS ARE STILL AHEAD OF US. WE WILL PLAY BALL ON FIELDS WHERE THE NATIONAL ANTHEM IS SUNG, WHERE THE STARS AND STRIPES STILL WAIVE, WHERE HOMERUNS, DOUBLE PLAYS, MVP'S, GOLDEN GLOVES, PEANUTS AND CRACKERJACKS ABOUND. NOTHING AND NO ONE CAN SEPARATE US FROM THE GOD WHO LOVES US AND GIVES US THE GREAT GAMES OF BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL. THAT IS NOT GOING TO CHANGE. OUR MAKER AND OUR MISSION REMAIN THE SAME. AS WE MOVE INTO OUR 22ND YEAR OF SERVICE WE STILL INVITE ALL OUR LIKEMINDED BROTHERS AND SISTERS TO JOIN US IN THE GREATEST AMERICAN GAME.

UNITED WE STAND.
UNITED WE PLAY.
UNITED IN PURPOSE.
UNITED TODAY.

Beginning Friday, October 17th, 2003, I am going to begin a new series of 40 Ralphisms. There will be one written for each day. You may call 281-313-0789-0 or e-mail ralph@txsoftballhalloffame.com. These 40 new Ralphisms are dedicated to you.

These sometimes pithy editorial comments do and will  represent the true points of view and perspective of Texas Softball Hall of Fame and are solely provided for the inspiration of our reading and softball audiences. Any republication, rebroadcast or other use of the descriptions and accounts therein contained is expressly forbidden without written permission from Texas Softball Hall of Fame.

On October 17th, 2003, it will be exactly 40 months ago that I experienced the greatest test this man has been through. It was a far greater test than leading 851 Tournaments or 298 Leagues. It was more difficult than teaching for more than 25 years in public middle schools. In fact, those accomplishments don't even come close.

40 is a significant number. Many historical facts can be associated with the number 40. For example, Moses was transformed on Mt. Sinai in 40 days. Second, David was changed by a 40 day challenge from a giant named Goliath. Also, Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness before He began His public ministry. Likewise, the followers of Jesus were greatly transformed by 40 days with Him after His resurrection. Many other examples could be given, but I think you get the point or maybe you are about to get it...  

After being rendered unconscious by the anesthesiologist, the Thoracic Surgeon, his team, and the Cardiologist went forward with the operation. All the blood was drained out of my body; the chest and leg were opened. My heart was removed, and four arteries leading to my heart were bi-passed.  The physical pain of recovery and the emotional pain of hearing the flat line on the monitor seven times are part of the story that until now I have been hesitant to reveal.

Someone once said, "Teach us to count our days." Today I am 19,800 days old and not only counting my days, but making each day count. Have you ever counted yours? If not, do it now and remember to add in the leap years. They are the same as presidential election years. If you decide to join me on this 40 day journey, our relationship will rise to a new level. Relationships are always more important than accomplishments.

Before we were born, this day was planned. This very moment was planned. It is no accident that you are reading this now. The yearning inside you to discover real life is there by design. As you reflect on what I am writing, the insight may come that who we are and what we are living for can not be found in a game. They must be discovered as part of an overall purpose that only God can work out in anyone. Life is a test we all hope to pass.

Thank you for the time we have together and the privilege of connecting with you.

Ralph Hall - 281-313-0789-0-1

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#1 It's not the coin flip which begins every game, but each game begins with the one whose name is on the coin.  10-17-03   19,762

#2 The only way to accurately accept  your unique role on a team is to make the reference point of your life Someone, not some win. 10-18-03

#3 The team or player without a higher purpose than winning the games will lose. 10-19-03

#4 The purpose of playing ball does not end with the last out. 10-20-03

#5 Affirming, promoting, and celebrating a relationship is always better than celebrating a win. 10-21-03

#6 When I pass the temporary test of this world, I will go home, not leave home. 10-22-03

#7 A heart shaped like a softball reflects the glory of the God who shaped it that way. 10-23-03

#8 Work that is dedicated to and performed in the presence of God isn't just work, it's worship. 10-24-03

#9 Whenever you make one, declare war on errors, then smile. 10-25-03

#10 Retirement competes for attention with the mission and is never the goal of authentic service.   10-26-03

#11 The key to having winners for friends is not changing friends, but changing your attitude toward the friends you already have. 10-27-03

#12 Nothing  is more important than developing a friendship with my most proactive friend. 10-28-03

#13 The heart of the game is the game of the heart. 10-29-03

#14 At the deepest level of trust, hope is born and at the highest level of hope, love is born. 10-30-03

#15 One of life's greatest privileges is being in the softball family. 10-31-03

#16 The entire softball rulebook can be summed up in one simple rule; love the people at the ballpark the same way as you love yourself. 11-1-03

#17 When a man's level of involvement demonstrates a commitment to others, the time arrives for him to be on a team and to belong in the softball family. 11-2-03

#18 The mercy rules let a team be bruised, but not be broken. 11-3-03

#19 Pure minded softball players can pray, "Lead us not into 'pimptation'." 11-4-03

#20 To understand what real love is means that we realize that Someone has given a life for us, so we must also give our lives for others. 11-5-03

#21 Reconciliation and restoration are more valuable to relationships than resolution and rights. 11-6-03  

#22 Passionate protection of players produces unity. 11-7-03

#23 Taking on the values, attitudes, and character of the best leads any man to an entirely new way of life. 11-8-03

#24 Growing up means learning to think a better way, but getting older means thinking the same old way. 11-9-03

#25 Truth transforms from tenaciously terroristic to totally terrific. 11-10-03

#26 Pain without purpose punishes, but pain with purpose prepares. 11-11-03

#27 You've heard that it ain't over till it's over or it ain't over till the fat lady sings. Try this one - It ain't over till my Father says it is. 11-12-03

#28 After touching the four bases of desire, doubt, deception, and disobedience, you will discover that while running this way may be tempting, the run does not count. 11-13-03

#29 A good coach can help you with your game, but a Godly coach will help you with your life. 11-14-03

#30 Everything at the ballpark has its own time and its own season. When your time arrives, will you? 11-15-03

#31 When you stop asking, "who is going to meet my needs" and start asking "whose needs can I meet", I have a place for your team - call me. 11-16-03

#32 Being in shape to play beats playing to be in shape. 11-17-03

#33. The greatest player I ever met did not have as much talent, ability, or skill as many others, but he was available, remained aware of what his teammates needed, did his best with what he had, was consistently dedicated, stayed totally trustworthy, and maintained a low profile. 11-18-03

#34 The closer you get to the promoter, the less you need to promote yourself.  11-19-03

#35 When I am weak, God works on me, in me, with me, and thru me. When I am strong, God works in spite of me. 11-20-03

#36 The shared, specific, ongoing, privileged, and significant mission for each man is not to compete against others, but to complete His work for others. 11-21-03

#37 Zeal and passion to be a family member, a model of character, a magnifier of glory, a minister of grace, and a messenger of good news, are all factors in qualifying for the Purpose Driven Hall of Fame. 11-22-03

#38 The center, character, contribution, communication, and community of a real life is God, not people. 11-23-03

#39 A simple life of respecting God is better than a complex life with the headaches and heartaches it brings. 11-24-03

#40 11-25-03 I would rather be remembered as one who served the purposes of God in his own generation than as one who served any other purpose at all. R. Hall 19,802

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WE EMBRACE OUR NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH THE BRAND NEW MANAGEMENT OF PAPA BLAKELY'S and we look forward to 2004, when some of the best games ever will be played.  We will renew very many friendships and acquaintances, meet some new people, and make a few new friends. Meanwhile, we would like to take just a few minutes to say goodbye to our friends from New Territory.

I am very thankful that the work at New Territory for the last three years is complete. Many meaningful relationships have been and will continue to be developed there. Memories of some great people, good games, healthy laughter, and caring participants will be with me for a long time. No matter what goals are set by others, I made a decision some time ago that it is time for me to move on to a higher purpose.

While the work at New Territory is done, I am not done. When the dust settles and the new fields are calling you to play ball, remember this: it's not where the game is played, but how the game is played that really matters. Softball mirrors life. How you live and not where you live is what reflects who you really are. For those who know who they are, the best is yet to be.

LET'S ROLL by Lisa Beamer
The NAME by Franklin Graham

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Five of the seven tournaments we filled up, booked, and scheduled for this year have been rained out. Six out of ten Sunday nights have also been rained out this year. A kindhearted friend asked me how I felt or what I thought about all this rain. Here are 10 points for my friend and others like him to ponder. 
1. When there are deep disappointments or unmet expectations, a bond is formed between the One who created the rain and those who trust Him.
2. At moments like this, we need to open the eyes of our hearts to see solutions to problems rather than to blindly quit or to blame someone else.
3. A man of His word will keep his promises to play another day.
4. Rain or shine - Integrity is the bottom line.
5. Looking beyond ourselves, we realize that someone else needed the rain.
6. People are always more valuable than rain, rules, power, pleasure, or possessions.
7. Peaceful sleep comes to those who are already at peace when they are wide awake.
8. Americans need to remember that the tears of grace water the roots of freedom.
9. The importance of delaying gratification is amplified by the fact that into every life some rain will fall.
10. Rainy days remind us that life is about the more important things than self or selfishness. After all, IT'S NOT ABOUT ME. It's about the One who is really in control. Who made it rain today anyway?
"The Return of the Champions will happen and the Champions will Return" R. Hall

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TO DAD ON FATHER'S DAY,
THANKS DAD FOR BEING BEFORE ME TO LEAD THE WAY.
THANKS DAD FOR BEING BESIDE ME TO ENCOURAGE ME.
THANKS DAD FOR BEING BEHIND ME TO SUPPORT ME.
THANKS DAD FOR BEING IN MY HEART.
THANKS DAD FOR CHANGING MY DARKEST THOUGHTS INTO YOUR BRIGHTEST IDEAS.
THANKS DAD FOR BEING WHO YOU ARE.
THANKS DAD FOR ALL YOU DO.
THANKS DAD FOR PLAYING CATCH WITH ME, FOR TEACHING ME TO BAT, AND FOR SHOWING ME HOW TO RUN THOSE BASES.
DAD, YOU DESERVE THE HONOR AND THE GLORY. 
I LOVE YOU.

YOUR SON,
RALPH HALL, JR.

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Here are 7 Ralphisms to ponder before the "Return Of The Champions" tournament

1. THERE ARE TWO KINDS OF SOFTBALLERS - DREAMERS AND PLANNERS; THE PLANNERS HELP TO MAKE DREAMS COME TRUE.
2. TELL THEM I'M NOT THROUGH - FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME DREAM BIG AND PLAN!
3. THE BEST DREAMS ARE NOT CREATED WHEN WE SLEEP, BUT WHEN WE ARE WIDE AWAKE.
4. If you are going to dream, dream well. Dreams have a way of coming true.
5. The best way to speak to others is not with dreams or visions, but with God-pleasing thoughts that transform into simple words of clarity for their ears and simple acts of charity for their eyes.
6. Everything at the ballpark has its own time and its own season. When your time arrives, will you?
7. Some dreams don't come true, but some dreams do. LET'S ROLL!
The Return of the Champions will happen and the Champions will Return. R. Hall
 

As we look back on the events that unfolded that September morning three years ago we remember some lessons we must not forget. First, those who declared war on us have and will continue to violate the highest principals of God and man by the killing thousands of innocent men, women, and children. Second, those who value the gifts of life and freedom rose from the ashes of destruction to mourn with those who mourn and to comfort them in their time of deepest grief. Tears of grace have watered the roots of freedom. Third, those who have lead and those who have followed are united, not by geography or by politics, but by purpose. More than the United States of America or the United Nations, the United Family of faith, hope, and love are united in living passionate purpose driven lives.

As we look around today it is the family of freedom which is under attack by the domestic terrorist at home and the violent terrorist from abroad. While seeing them for who and for what they are, we don't need  a disingenuous political party to raise our families. We do need to live out the true meaning of "one nation under God"  from our pledge and "in God we trust" on our money to both be and to become The Family of Freedom. I am glad that our President, George W. Bush, is in that family and will help to equip the moral, political, and military warriors who must protect us with all they need to do so. Like a mighty army, we hear the bugle's call to the future.

As we look ahead we know that the best is yet to be. Why? The future belongs to the same one who created this planet, who gives us our daily bread, and is coming soon to take all His family home. The hopes and fears all all the years will meet again soon. The return of Jesus Christ is near and the Family of Freedom is getting ready. It is for freedom that we have been set free. As I rest from my labors this day, September 6th, 2004, I invite you to rise up and follow our marching orders from the words of an ancient song, "I run in the path of your commands, for You have set my heart free." Ralph Hall   

About The Presidential Prayer Team:
Member Service Center: Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm (MST)
Email: Info@PresidentialPrayerTeam.org
Phone: 800-295-1235 Fax: 520-797-7176

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"THE BEST DREAMS ARE NOT CREATED WHEN WE SLEEP, BUT WHEN WE ARE WIDE AWAKE. DREAMS REVEAL CHARACTER. CHARACTER PRODUCES HOPE. HOPE IS NOT A FUTURE EVENT AS MUCH AS A REALITY PRESENT IN A LIFE WHERE THE BEST IS YET TO BE. ABILITY CAN LEAD TO CHAMPIONSHIPS, BUT CHARACTER PRODUCES DYNASTIES. GENUINE SUCCESS IS NOT ABOUT ACHIEVING HIGH GOALS OR ABOUT DOING GREAT DEEDS, IT'S REAL SIGNIFICANCE IS ABOUT BEING UNSELFISH IN THOUSANDS OF LITTLE THINGS. So my friends, if you are going to dream, dream well. Dreams have a way of becoming reality. Finally, the best way to communicate with others is not with dreams or visions, but with God-pleasing thoughts that transform into simple words of clarity for their ears and simple acts of charity for their eyes." R. HALL

"DAD YOU WERE RIGHT. IT'S NOT WHETHER YOU WIN OR LOSE, BUT HOW YOU PLAY THE GAME. I MISS YOU AND I WISH WE COULD PLAY CATCH TODAY." R. HALL

"WHO ONE IS - IS NOT AS SIGNIFICANT AS WHOSE ONE IS." "WHAT IS MAN THAT YOU ARE MINDFUL OF HIM ? ... YOU MADE HIM A LITTLE LOWER THAN THE ANGELS AND CROWNED HIM WITH GLORY AND HONOR." R. HALL AND  PSALM 8:4

"Never stop connecting with the One who gave you your dreams. To follow Him is more important than to follow your dreams." R. Hall

"A PICTURE IS WORTH 1000 VOTES." R. HALL

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Dear Ralph, We had a long night -- and we had a great night.  The voters turned out in record numbers and delivered an historic victory.   I want to thank our supporters across this country.  At every stop I asked you to make the calls, put up the signs, talk to your neighbors, and get out the vote.  And because you did your part, we are celebrating today. Thanks to you, we received more votes than any presidential ticket in history.
America has spoken.  And I am humbled by the trust and confidence of my fellow citizens.  With that trust comes a duty: I will serve all Americans, so help me God.  I am proud to lead such an amazing country -- and I am proud to lead it forward.     Reaching our goals will require the broad support of Americans.  A new term is a new opportunity to reach out to the whole nation.  We have one country, one Constitution, and one future that binds us all.  And when we come together and work together, there is no limit to the greatness of America.  A campaign has ended, and our cause is renewed.  The United States of America goes forward with confidence and faith.  I can see a new day coming, and I am eager for the work ahead.  God bless you all, and God bless America.

 

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"Your welcome, Mr. President. It's an honor to serve you, sir. As a co-founder of the Presidential Prayer Team, a small business owner, and a professional educator, I pledge to continue my support for you and your work. America and those in the world who love freedom need you and Laura. God bless you, too." RALPH HALL

To prepare we begin the year 2005 with this preprayer. As you have done in history, give your servant success today by granting him FAVOR in the presence of the King.
 Ralph Hall

A sense of deep personal gratitude goes to the President of the United States of America for his invitation for me to attend his inauguration. Also, on behalf of the hundreds of thousands who have supported me, I accept the Certificate of Merit from Fred Meyer and George W. Bush. It says, "Be it known to all who bear witness that This highest honor which may be bestowed by The RNC Presidential Victory Team has been awarded to Mr. Ralph Hall, Jr., a recognized leader in Texas on this 26th day of January in the year 2005 for Dedication, Sacrifice, and Commitment.....".

ROGER THROWS NO HITTER AT PAPA BLAKELY'S
IN A FIVE INNING THURSDAY NIGHT LEAGUE GAME, ROGER LEICK, THE SUGAR LAND SAGE, NOT ROGER, THE KATY ROCKET, PITCHED A NO HITTER. CONGRATULATIONS TO HIM AND HIS TEAM, FAITH LUTHERAN, COACHED BY HALL OF FAME UMPIRE, JACK GEHRKE.

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WANTED: AN APPRENTICE AND A CHAPLIN

DO YOU KNOW THAT IN A LEAGUE OR A TOURNAMENT ONLY ONE TEAM GETS THE AWARDS? WE ALL NEED TO PLAY TO WIN. EVERYONE WHO COMPETES IN THESE GAMES CAN GET A CHAMPION T-SHIRT, BUT SOME WILL BUILD POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS THAT OUTLAST THE LIFE OF ANY T-SHIRT. THEY ARE THE REAL WINNERS. AIMING TO WIN ON A HIGHER LEVEL GIVES A REWARD FAR MORE BENEFICIAL THAN ANY AWARD. ACCOMPLISHING THE PURPOSE OF OUR MISSION BRINGS MULTIPLE WINS, WHICH ALSO CONTAIN THE SEEDS OF FUTURE WINS.

I HAVE SEEN MANY UNDER THE HOT TEXAS SUN WHO CHASE A MEANINGLESS WIN. WHEN THEY DO NOT FOLLOW THE ONE WHO GAVE THEM THEIR DREAMS, THEY LOSE. AMONG THEIR GREATEST LOSSES ARE THE LOSS OF SELF-RESPECT, THE RESPECT OF OTHERS, AND ULTIMATELY THE LOSS OF THE PRESENCE OF HIM WHO HAS THE MOST RESPECT FOR THEM.  HOWEVER, ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE CHASE, I HAVE SEEN A FEW WHO NEVER STOP CONNECTING TO THE ONE WHO GAVE THEM THEIR DREAMS. THEY FULLY UNDERSTAND THAT TO FOLLOW HIM IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN TO FOLLOW THEIR OWN DREAMS. THEY WIN BY BEING PURPOSEFULLY  TRANSFORMED GIVERS OF ENCOURAGEMENT, FAITH, HOPE, AND LOVE. THEY WIN BY HELPING OTHERS IN THOUSANDS OF LITTLE UNSELFISH WAYS. THEY WIN BY  BECOMING THE MOST ENDANGERED SPECIES ON THIS PLANET, DEDICATED LEADERS.

INDIVIDUALS AND TEAMS THAT SAY YES TO THIS PURPOSE HAVE SOMETHING VERY HONORABLE GOING FOR THEM. THEY DON'T JUST DO THE MISSION. THEY ARE ON MISSION. IN ADDITION TO LEADING AND CARING ABOUT THE PEOPLE AT THE BALLPARK, THEY FACILITATE A LIFE CHANGE FOR THOSE IN THEIR SPHERE OF INFLUENCE. NO OBSTACLE WILL STOP THEM. NO ROADBLOCK WILL KEEP THEM FROM A SOLUTION. NO FEAR CAN KEEP THEM FROM OVERCOMING. NO DESTRUCTIVE HABITS OF WORRY WILL BE CONSIDERED AS ACCEPTABLE. NO WORTHLESS FEELINGS OF SELF-PITY ARE VALUED. NO GOSSIPING PARIAHS OF DECEIT ARE LISTENED TO. NO CRIPPLING EXCUSE DISEASES KEEP THEM FROM PARTICIPATING. NO BETRAYER OF TRUST CAN ROB THEM OF THEIR INTEGRITY. 

WHEN WE OPEN OUR MINDS TO THOSE KINDS OF POSSIBILITIES WE WILL BE LIKE THE ROGER BANNISTER'S OF SOFTBALL, BREAKING THE MILES OF RECORDS THAT OTHERS SAID COULD NOT BE BROKEN. WE WILL EXECUTE AN UPLIFTING SOFTBALL FOSBERRY FLOP, TAKING THE GAME TO A HIGHER LEVEL THAN ANYONE THOUGHT COULD HAPPEN. JOINING HANDS TO BE A SOFTBALL FAMILY  DEMONSTRATES A UNITY AND A DEEPER RESPECT FOR ONE ANOTHER THAN THE ALTERNATIVE PLAY STYLE WHICH PURSUES ONLY THE AWARDS.

SO WHO DO YOU TALK TO AT THE END OF THE GAME, THE LEAGUE, THE TOURNAMENT, THE SEASON, THE YEAR, THE CAREER, THE LIFETIME? LET ME INVITE YOU TO INVENTORY YOUR HEART.  LET ME ENTHUSIASTICALLY POINT THE WAY TO WINNING IS FOUND IN THE MOST POWERFUL COMMUNICATION TOOL. LET ME CHALLENGE THE ONE WHO IS READING THESE WORDS NOW TO TALK TO OUR BOSS. ASK HIM IF YOU CAN BEGIN TODAY TO BE A HELPER AND NOT A HINDRANCE, TO BECOME AN APPRENTICE OF ONE AND A CHAPLIN OF ALL.

TO APPLY FOR EITHER OF THESE POSITIONS CALL 281-313-0789-0-3 OR   E-MAIL: ralph@txsoftballhalloffame.com

"DAD YOU WERE RIGHT. IT'S NOT WHETHER YOU WIN OR LOSE, BUT HOW YOU PLAY THE GAME. I MISS YOU AND I WISH WE COULD PLAY CATCH TODAY." Ralph Hall, Jr.

IN THE MOMENTS OF DEEPEST PAIN OR IN THE TIMES OF GREATEST JOY, MANY BALLPLAYERS SIMPLY DO NOT KNOW WHAT TO SAY. IF I COULD TEACH THEM HOW TO BEGIN, WE WOULD SAY TOGETHER THREE SIMPLE WORDS, "THANK YOU FATHER." Ralph Hall, Jr.

Thank You Father

He cares about me.
He loves me for who I am.
He smiles at me with eyes that shine.
He thinks that I am a gift.
He reads and writes the best books.
He listens to me while I share my dreams with Him.
He admires my strengths, talents, and skills, but mostly he treasures my positive attitude.
He frames my picture in His favorite room.
He honors me for my character and not just for my achievements.
He desires to be near me, to hug me, to protect me.
He reaches to shake my hand or to give me five.
He wants to talk to me and to have me talk to Him.
He tells me that I make a difference in His life.
He knows me well enough to understand what my hurts are.
He walks with me taking lively steps in the right direction.
He prays for me and with me.
He treats me tenderly.
He takes me out to the ballgame.
He lets me invite my closest friends to play ball on His team.
He counts my tears when we cry over the American flag.
He lives to laugh with me when I laugh.
He yearns to transform my passion into compassion.
He trusts me and wants me to trust Him.
He needs for me to support others as He has supported me.
He gives me confidence and hope and love.
He generously gives me an extraordinary kind of wisdom.
He enlightens my mind with a museum of joyous memories.
He warms my heart in knowing that He will also be in my future.
He sends the music that reminds me of His love.
He shines with a heartfelt peacefulness when I say three simple words to Him, "Thank You Father."

                                                                                                   Ralph Hall, Jr.

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"WHEN THE BEST WORDS OF ANY LIFE ECHO WHAT GOD HAS ALREADY WRITTEN, THE SOUNDS DO NOT BRING TREASURE TO THE WRITER. THEY INCREASE THE JOY FROM THE ORIGINAL WRITING AND DEVELOP AN APTITUDE FOR JOY IN THE ONES WHO HEAR WITH THE EARS OF THEIR HEARTS." RALPH HALL, JR
 

"WE DO NOT HONOR ANY OF THE MAJOR CREDIT CARDS, BUT WE WILL ACCEPT ALL PLAYERS WHO HONOR THEIR FATHER AND THEIR MOTHER." Ralph Hall, Jr.
 

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911+ 4 AMERICA'S CHALLENGE

Sometimes our challenges come in the form of  foreign terror. Other times challenges come from nature, as Katrina and Rita have both recently reminded us. Greater challenges than these may come in moments of mean spirited personal insults from those whose emotional needs are infected with virus of selfishness. These kinds of miscommunications manifest themselves in negative personal  assaults on the integrity and character of our leaders and their leadership. They are designed to be destructive, not constructive. The time to overcome any and all of these challenges is now. The strategies which enable us to rise up and to win are to make wise choices.

Some of our more important choices include: to help the helpless, to give hope to the hopeless, to honor the humble, to exercise the  freedoms to think and feel, to promote character and sportsmanship, and to be reasonably dedicated, determined, and dependable. As we continue to participate on the stage of  the softball world we need to be mindful of the realities that these challenges bring to life. With that kind of awareness we proceed to the ballparks knowing that the greatest freedom each person has in softball is the freedom to choose. The most challenging choice is not where we will play, not when we will play, not what we will do, or not even how we will play. The most challenging choice is to bravely choose who we will become. With high hopes for the future I hope to become one who echoes these next three words often, let's play ball.   Ralph Hall, Jr.

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"My leadership of softball events in any location will continue to promote sportsmanship, protect the integrity of the game, provide a caring atmosphere, enhance the well-being of participants, and honor connectedness in the softball community. The shared, specific, ongoing, privileged, and significant mission for this man is not to compete against others, but to complete His work for others." Ralph Hall 
 

"Even if the whole world tries to play it, softball is an American game, played in America's State, TEXAS."
Ralph Hall 12-28-05

"NO BALLVIATING! THAT'S MY JOB." RALPH HALL and my Thanks to Bill O'Reilly.

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Ralph Hall was conferred, "...with all due circumstance and respect..." THE CONGRESSIONAL ORDER OF MERIT  from Tom Reynolds, Chairman, and The National Republican Congressional Committee. He "has unequivocally earned this good and high tribute in recognition of...undying commitment, patriotic loyalty, and dedication of service to President George W. Bush, the Republican Party, and the United States of America."

My thanks to the Amateur Softball Association of America and to Ron Waldrop, Houston Metro ASA Commissioner, for the recent honors and plaques. Ron, we wish you a speedy and complete recovery. You are a role model, mentor, and friend.

"Coaches that balance productivity and capability lead teams that consistently outscore their competition." Ralph Hall 1-30-07

It happens every spring. Boys and girls, men and women pull out their gloves and bats, gather up some baseballs or softballs, and head to the field to play ball! What was once considered to be the National Pastime can still be one of the most wholesome activities in our culture. When a boy and his dad or a mom and her child play some catch, a special bond can be formed. Dreams are born as they sit around a radio, watch the TV Baseball Game of the Week, or cheer in the stands for their favorite team. Buy me some peanuts and Crackerjacks, dad, I don’t care if we ever get back.

 

From the perspective of this writer, baseball is more than a game. It is a gift, a gift from God, which presents itself in at least 10 ways.

 

1.     It helps us realize that we are all uniquely created and in the process of becoming who God made us to be. Some of us are even made to play ball!

2.     It helps us to discover our best. If you don’t know what your best position is, let me suggest that you get down on your knees and ask. You just might discover your best while you are there.

3.     It enhances prayer life. When you pray, if you actually think and speak as if you are talking to someone, you are.

4.     It enables a batter to sing praises to God. The batter who sings his own praises rarely gets the right pitch.

5.     It promotes self-control. A player is never in worse company than when he goes into a rage and is beside himself.

6.     It gives a sense of practicality. On the way to the ballpark when you come to the fork in the road, be sure to clean it well before you eat with it.

7.     It encourages fellowship. An invitation to play ball can begin many friendships.

8.     It preserves wisdom. An MVP’s greatest asset is not his ability to play the game, but is his ability to love the One who created his game and his life.

9.     It leaves a legacy. Champions belong to history. Even if you did not get a love for the game from your parents, you can still leave a love for the game for your children or grandchildren.

10.   It teaches humility. The kind of player you are is a gift from God, but the kind of player you become is your gift to God.  Ralph Hall, Jr. 3-15-07              

SOFTBALL QUIZ:

A. "If you have 28 teams playing with SPORTSMANSHIP, what do you have?"

B. "If you have over 150 MEN playing with SPORTSMANSHIP, what do you have?"

C. "If you have about 80 men and women playing with SPORTSMANSHIP, what do you have?"   

D. "What is the essence of the Golden Rule?"

E. "What is more important talent or character?"

Answers:
A. A Sunday night League at Cullen Park

B. A Tuesday night League in Mo. City

C. A Friday Coed League in Mo. City

 D. One person who can impact the sport in a genuinely positive way. 

E. Talent is a gift. Character is a choice.

A. B. C. D. & E. = 2 places where Competence & Character unite.                 R. Hall 5-10-07

"The Pillsbury Doughboy is one of my favorite role models. Who is yours?" Ralph Hall 1-30-07

"We are planning today for the games we will play tomorrow."  RALPH HALL

"No, Lance, you cannot play in our Leagues this year." Ralph Hall

"I would rather see ONE man playing with sportsmanship than hear the 19 others on the field just talking about it." R. Hall 5-10-07

"I would rather see ONE team playing with sportsmanship than to hear the other team just talking about it." R. Hall 5-10-07

 "When an ordinary man does extraordinary things, he makes a difference in his lifetime and leaves a legacy for generations." Ralph Hall 6-12-07    

The Golden Rule of Umpiring
"Do ump to others as you would have them do ump to you." Ralph Hall, Jr. 6-25-07

My thanks to Dr. Zachary Hodges, Troy Jefferson, and Phillip McNeil for inviting me to be the Guest of Honor at the Houston Community College Northwest Athletic Awards Banquet on 6-21-07. They all represent a very fine organization which shares in our valuing of sportsmanship, character, and camaraderie. It fills me with a deep sense of gratitude to be associated with these men. When we soar with the Eagles, we rise to a new level of commitment in the Texas Softball Hall of Fame community. Ralph Hall     

"A priceless, positive, powerful honoring of our connectedness promotes professional and personal partnerships." Ralph Hall 6-28-07

ARE YOU THE MAN?
Craig Biggio is not the biggest, strongest, fastest, or highest paid, but he will be in the Hall of Fame. Why? Here are some of more than 3000 reasons.

He plays the game with passion,  commits himself to his family, honors his friends, and cares about his community. He does not know when, but one day his time and place will come. The Hall of Fame is in him first and one day he will be in the Hall of Fame.

If I ever know a man like him in my softball program, that man will go into the Texas Softball Hall of Fame. Who will rise up to be such a person? Time and choices will tell us all.  Are you the MAN?  Ralph Hall 6-30-07
Houston, We have a Hall of Fame Player. LET'S PLAY BALL!

Today I went with my friend, Dr. Kurt Griesser, to a new field where we had never been and we practiced. He hit 3 home runs out of about 70 balls. I hit about 35 balls, no home runs, but did manage to hit the fence twice. It felt good to be there on the field, in a 100+ temperature, and practicing for the first time in years. Thanks, Doc.  You did more today than help me improve my game, you helped me appreciate the lives that we have been given. LET'S PLAY BALL! Ralph Hall 8-8-07

"Welcome to the heartbeat of Texas Softball, where the pulses of over 15,000 champions beat to the rhythm of the sportsmanship drum." Yet, amazingly, a mountain of accomplishment doesn't compare to the one promise we claim in knowing that the best is yet to be. Lift up your head, your heart, your bat, your glove, and your life. Now is the time and this is the place. LET'S PLAY BALL!                                    Ralph Hall 7-13-07 

 

"The base path of character is not the base path of compromise."
                                                                          Ralph Hall 8-30-07

"Overwhelming gratitude is what I feel for those connected to this game who have touched my heart." Ralph Hall 9-3-07

THE THRILLER Bs of 2007: BE ONE

"To play better is a good goal for 2007, but to BE better is a great goal anytime."

Ralph Hall, Jr. 12-16-06

BE ONE by Ralph Hall, Jr.

• Be gracious in winning.

• Be dignified in losing.

• Be a man who takes on more responsibility.

• Be a person who loves the game.

• Be able to accept constructive criticism.

• Be accepting of each players uniqueness.

• Be alive in the hope that THE BEST IS YET TO BE.

• Be an extraordinary example in an ordinary game.

• Be appreciative in all relationships and say so.

• Be available before game time.

• Be awake and doing what others only dream of doing.

• Be aware of what others need.

• Be better by meeting a truer, deeper man who knows his potential and his limits.

• Be building priceless, positive relationships with the Texas Softball Hall Of Fame community.

• Be calm because the tasks ahead of us are never as great as the power within us.

• Be caring on the base paths of life.

• Be character directed before, during, and after the game.

• Be commissioned to bring others to the fields of promise and hope. 

• Be committed to solving problems.

• Be compassionate toward those in need.

• Be confident when trying new things.

• Be connected to destiny; lead, follow, or get out of the way.

• Be consistently dedicated.

• Be continually encouraging others.

• Be courageous instead of selfish.

• Be destined to cross the intersections of public roads and private paths.

• Be encouraged by improvement.

• Be energized by the generator of honorable work.

• Be filled up at the gas station of inspiration.

• Be flexible instead of rigid.

• Be focused on the primary love languages.

• Be following the ONE who gave you your dreams.

• Be friendly to all, including umpires.

• Be generous in giving wisdom to others.

• Be genuinely glad to just play ball.

• Be good news in bad situations.

• Be grateful in the opportunity zone.

• Be growing the seeds of greatness in the soil of sportsmanship.

• Be helpful even when you do not feel like it.

• Be HERE in the HEAR process, listening.

• Be HEROES and SHEROES who serve as role models.

• Be in the army that loves and leads all people to a life change.

• Be in the TEXAS SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME.

• Be inspired by reading the best into everyone.

• Be kind, warmhearted, inviting the humble to become great.

• Be laughing often, because humor is the shortest distance between two hearts.    

• Be leading the people to events that bring honor and connectedness to the softball community.

• Be learning to build long term, satisfying relationships.

• Be lifting up the name above all names in honor and praise.

• Be listening more and more and more.

• Be living your best life today, a life worth remembering.

• Be loyal to trustworthy leaders.

• Be loving, more than anything else, be loving.

• Be one who remembers the best and forgets the rest.

• Be optimistic in the present about the future.

• Be our mission statement personified.

• Be mindful that relationships are always more important than rules, power, possessions or prestige.

• Be motivated by faith, motivating by hope, and a motivator by love.

• Be nurturing to all, from the unborn to the newborn, and especially to the reborn.

• Be patient with people who need to develop.

• Be persevering beyond the tests of time and circumstance.

• Be persistent in promoting sportsmanship.

• Be planning today for the games tomorrow.

• Be playing basic softball.

• Be positive in attitudes, thoughts, words, and behaviors.

• Be practical one day at a time.

• Be practicing teamwork to make the dream work.

• Be prepared to go home.

• Be proactive in minimizing problems.

• Be profoundly significant because of who you are.

• Be protecting the integrity of the game.

• Be purposeful in decision making.

• Be receiving the music which is sent to remind us of His love.

• Be respectful to everyone.

• Be self-giving and benevolent.

• Be seeking to enhance the well-being of all who participate.

• Be sober on and off the field.

• Be somebody greater than you thought you could be.

• Be speaking with words that inspire, motivate, and stimulate.

• Be stimulated by trust, stimulating by confidence, and a stimulator by purposeful expectation.

• Be strong in the Spirit.

• Be successful in building relationships.

• Be teaching life lessons.

• Be thankful as a way of life.

• Be that purposeful new follower of the One who leads well.

• Be the believer who can not leave her.

• Be the blessing.

• Be the difference in the lives of people at the ballpark.

• Be the joyous life song of praise.

• Be the one who plays the GRACE CARD.

• Be the one who possesses self-respect.

• Be the person you were created to be.

• Be the possibility thinker factor.

• Be the reasonable person who seeks to understand before he seeks to be understood.

• Be the smile of the over comer.

• Be the soldier giving his life so his friends have the freedom to play ball.

• Be the tears of grace, which water the roots of freedom.

• Be the thrill.

• Be the trophy of honor when it's all over.

• Be there for your team.

• Be thoughtful of the needs of other people.

• Be to others as you would want them to be to you.

• Be totally impartial.

• Be transforming passion into compassion. 

• Be trustworthy, delivering promises on the premises.

• Be united in attitudes and actions.

• Be unselfish in thousands of little things.

• Be unswervingly authentic.

• Be visionary, seeing thru the lens of humility, beyond negative circumstances or negative people, to the big video screen.

• Be wearing the trophy of honor.

• Be what others only dream of being.

• Be where God looks when He smiles, in the heart of service.

• Be who you are and Whose you are.

• Be wise in choosing the questions which you ask because you may get a generous portion of exactly what you ask.

• Be a friend of GOD.

• Be a LIVING BIBLE that your softball family can read.

• Become THE THRILLER B's, BE ONE.

• Ralph "Be" Hall - Revised on 9-24-07

"IF A MAN IS TO LEAD WELL, HE MUST CROSS THE INTERSECTIONS OF PERSONAL PATHS AND PUBLIC ROADS." CROSS ONE, BUT DO NOT DOUBLE CROSS ANYONE.
RALPH HALL, Jr. 7-18-07

"If the game is lost, it's OK, but if you are lost it's not OK." Ralph Hall 1-2-06

"Character is more important than comfort or convenience." Ralph Hall

"If you respect our history and if you care about our presence, you may wear the trophy of honor in our future." Ralph Hall, Jr.

"A SUCCESSFUL DAY AT THE OFFICE MEANS CARING FOR ALL WHO PARTICIPATE AND HELPING TO MAKE OUR LIVES BETTER THROUGH THE GAME OF SOFTBALL." Ralph Hall

"We are planning today for the games we will play tomorrow."  RALPH HALL

"LEADERSHIP means winning more than games."         Ralph Hall 9-24-07

"You will not have to stand up to sing take me out to the ballgame, if you are already here." 

    

"There is no I in team, but there are seven I's in team leadership: indescribable, influential, and inspirational." Ralph Hall 5-12-08

"Follow the One who leads me and He will make you more than winners of games." Ralph Hall 10-7-06  

 "WE WORK; YOU PLAY." Ralph Hall 

"Sometimes we have to serve in order to lead. Sometimes we have to lead in order to serve." Ralph Hall 7-15-08

"It's not the stars, the trophies, or the t-shirts that brings honor to softball players. It's the scars." Ralph Hall 5-12-08

"We don't just take softball players where they want to be. We take them where they ought to be." Ralph Hall 1-9-09

"Many teams have moved up to a higher level because their leader knew they could." Ralph Hall 7-8-08

"The rules of softball which are rooted in character and nurtured by sportsmanship will last more than my lifetime." Ralph Hall 1-9-09

"With vision, caring, and skill we see the plan. With cooperation, commitment, and courage we lead the people." RALPH HALL

"A softball player does not play because he has 9 others following him. A softball player plays because he has One leading him." BE ONE. Ralph Hall 7-16-08

"The BEST LEADER in softball IS the one who is AMONG US not the one who is above us. BE ONE."
RALPH HALL 7-18-07

"It's NOT the $ that we get, but the HEARTS that we touch, which is the true measure of the value of our LEADERSHIP." Ralph Hall 10-2-08

“If you plan to build a house of sportsmanship, you must first dig a deep foundation of character.” RALPH HALL 

"Before the hearts of the softball world can be turned upside down, my own heart has to be turned right side up." Ralph Hall 5-20-08

The difference between an umpire who controls the game and an umpire who is controlled by the players is not the calls he makes, but the authentic calling he has to be and to become a professional." Ralph Hall 10-13-07

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As an innovative leader in Houston area softball for 27 years, Ralph Hall is still passionate about this game. He loves what he does and does what he loves. Yet, there is something far more important than a mountain of past achievements or a deep well of positive feelings. That something is a calling to a purposeful life.  LET'S PLAY BALL!  "Who hears a voice in the fields of promise and hope calling us to a time?"  I am exceedingly grateful for the time God sent a man to me who said, "LET'S PLAY BALL," and now this man is strategically sent to echo that same calling to you, "LET'S PLAY BALL!"  Ralph Hall 7-30-09

We focus on connecting with our softball family. Many coaches and players discover that this is the time to be here. Being here with us helps both coaches and teams to relate well, to plan carefully, and to play better. We genuinely wish the best for all of our loyal friends and our faithful supporters. It is an honor to serve them. Sometimes we have to serve in order to lead, and sometimes we have to lead in order to serve. LET'S PLAY BALL !

"The test of softball leadership is passed when the players leave the park and do something that honors God with their lives." Ralph Hall 5-20-08

“If you plan to build a house of sportsmanship, you must first dig a deep foundation of character.” RALPH HALL 

"Before the hearts of the softball world can be turned upside down, my own heart has to be turned right side up." Ralph Hall 5-20-08

"A softball player does not play because he has 9 others following him. A softball player plays because he has One leading him." BE ONE. Ralph Hall 7-16-08

"The BEST LEADER in softball IS the one who is AMONG US not the one who is ABOVE US. BE ONE."
RALPH HALL 7-18-07

"Common men can play with uncommon sportsmanship." That is our common task. Together we have done, are doing, and will do  this very thing. Ralph Hall 5-20-08

"We don't just take players where they want to be. We take them where they ought to be." Ralph Hall 5-20-08

"Many teams have moved up to a higher level because their leader knew they could." Ralph Hall 7-8-08

"The rules of softball which are rooted in character and nurtured by sportsmanship will last more than a lifetime." Ralph Hall 7-8-08

"It's NOT the $ that you get, but the HEARTS that you touch, which is the true measure of the value of our LEADERSHIP." Ralph Hall 9-24-07

 It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbled, or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by the dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions and spends himself in a worthy course; who at best, knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who, at worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory or defeat.
Theodore Roosevelt, Paris Sorbonne, 1910.

"It's not the coin flip which begins every game, but each game begins with the One whose name is written on the coin." Ralph Hall

I’M ALIVE - OBL IS DEAD!

Amazing! How can it be true? Eleven years ago today I was home from the hospital, unable to speak or to sleep, barely able to breathe, in the worst pain of my life, and very near to meeting my Maker. Today, Osama Bin Laden is dead, but I'm alive!

Will you join with me to celebrate life more than death? The far more significant death does not belong to OBL, but to the man who actually came back from death. Every day I live gives me a chance to express my deepest joy and to honor Him, Jesus Christ. Because of His continual blessings on my life, other people are encouraged to grow in countless ways. Inspiring others to live better lives is the accomplishment of His leadership, not mine. While it is true that my work as a leader in softball has never been more rewarding, there are other things which greatly surpass the value of this career. Far more important is the fact that my wife and I are deeper in love now that we have ever been. Also, my daughter is a radiant young lady whose character and style cause her dad to shine with a heartfelt peacefulness. She is a living message who will soar like an eagle and be sent to a time I will not see. Likewise, my best friend has recently reminded me again that relationships are always more important than accomplishments. He is absolutely right. What a great opportunity we have in this life to give credit where credit is due. Thank you God, wife, family, and friends in softball, community, and church for all that you have been, are, and are going to be in our relationship. For every wounded heart there is a way out of the pain and into the fields of promise and hope. In these fields the best is yet to be amazing indeed!  To celebrate life, to love people, and to honor God transcend any temporary happiness from the demise of one evil man. I AM Ralph Hall and I approve of this message. May 2, 2011

THE ULTIMATE WATER BOARDING

"Geronimo can't send up any smoke signals from the bottom of the Arabian Sea." 5-4-11

LOL

Someone should write a  country song - “His lips are SEALED forever,” or a hip hop song - "My Brothas Killa sleeps on a waterbed, "or a Rock song - "Tide Rocker" or a Jazz song - "Fish Nibble Me Blues."  5-4-11

As we have our annual January break from softball, I am writing to reveal some of my thoughts for this season of the year and this time in our life together. The message is simple. Now is the time for a season of renewal.

Life is like a battery which continually discharges energy and unless it is regularly recharged, it will no longer work. A renewal begins with a reverent attitude which recharges both thoughts and feelings. That kind of attitude does more than prepare us to change this world for the better. It also fuels enthusiasm and generates a caring energy, which rarely fails. These all help us to realize that beyond every difficult valley there comes an opportunity to climb a mountain of solutions. Commitment to those solutions leads others to the top. Those who stand at the top of these mountains do not just fall there. They are chosen for this journey by the one who leads them.   

The courageous decisions that must be made to get to the top grow their roots in the fields of integrity and excellence. These decisions stay in focus on the fertile priorities of our mission statement and do not focus on the weeds of many other insignificant distractions. Thus, decisions become habits. Habits of doing well are continually grown and developed in the nurturing soil of sportsmanship.

Some of the benefits from this include an increase in peaceful sleep, enabling of deeper dreams, and a greater appreciation for both. Likewise, the authentic services inspired by the journey from dreaming to doing bring multiple rewards. Those who choose to follow in the footsteps of sportsmanship with character gain unimaginable benefits and are shielded from the destructive landmines of unpredictable events. Priceless are the faithful steps of confidence, hope, and caring in the journey to the Hall of Honor and to the Hall of Fame.

As the joyous sounds and gifts of this season echo in corridors of our minds, we must learn or relearn and never forget the words written long ago by a man named Isaiah, “But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, They run and don't get tired, they walk and don't lag behind.”  (The Message) Isaiah 40:31

While looking forward to our Spring Training Leagues, I am Ralph Hall and I approve of this message.

Rise and Run BOSTON !

Before we go about our business today let me take some time to reflect upon life in Boston. First and foremost our hearts go out to those who lost loved ones and to those who are injured. May many words of comfort and multiple acts of kindness support them in coping with their losses and in safeguarding their futures. My prayers are that we all rise above the cruel acts of the mean spirited, that justice will prevail, and that evil will not influence who we are. The blood of the innocent will irrigate the roots of freedom. Whom shall we fear?

As Americans who care about each other, we know that the social health, emotional well-being, and cultural heritage we leave our children all require healthy responses. The quality services from the law enforcement and medical communities in Boston set standards to which we can all aspire. Many individuals who rendered first aid, supported the authorities, and reached out to the hurting have modeled a living profile in courage. The modern day Patriots of Boston have carried on those historically exhibited qualities rooted in our nation's founding. While carrying on in the spirit of our revolution, genuinely brave hearts still beat in Boston. We salute you!

 Now the torch of Liberty has been passed to the wider community of the caring. The God of Angel Armies will deliver and He isn’t carrying a pizza. He carries all of us. I know for certain He has cared for and carried me thru unimaginable  pain many times. Let me reference one.

April 17, 18, 19 - I remember on these exact 3 days, 13 years ago being in an overwhelmingly difficult set of circumstances. As I lay in the ICU at the hospital flat lining after the quadruple bi-pass, there came a new calling in my life. Rising from 3 days at deaths door to become a new man has been a defining moment like no other. By God’s mercy I was given a fresh start to better love my wife, to guide my family, and to serve many people. Living, loving, and leading remain the lasting legacy for those who choose to step up to the plate and drive home the winning runs of life. Hopefully, the main point this message drives home is simple, Marathon People of Boston and America, Rise and Run!

I AM RALPH HALL, JR. and I approve of this message.

"Who has risen above the mess with a message of faith and hope from One messenger of a priceless love?"  R. Hall 9-28-16  TGBTG

My Thanks to J.J. WATT, his Foundation, and the Sugar Land Skeeters, for the honor of being their umpire for the at Constellation Field in Sugar Land, Texas, 4-27-13. Ralph Hall

"What a Great Choice for a umpire for the J. J. Watt Charity Softball Classic game." Ralph has been umpiring softball games in Houston for over 30 years! NSA / BPA Texas State Director, Mike Rodgers

HONOR is not given by genetics. "Honor is earned by complete commitment, diligent dedication, and ongoing self-sacrifice to the purposes of God for our lives together." Ralph Hall 5-6-13

"Some softball players bring happiness wherever they go and others bring happiness whenever they go." Ralph Hall 5-29-13 Choose this day which one you will be and my thanks to John Maxwell for helping me think of this.

PRICELESS HEARTS

 CARING HEARTS WIN RELATIONSHIPS.

COURAGEOUS HEARTS WIN BATTLES.

 COMMITTED HEARTS WIN THE FUTURE. .Ralph Hall 10-18-12

Leading a good league for good players- good
Leading an imperfect league for imperfect players- great
Leading a league for the worst behaving players in league  history and having the courage to lead them again- priceless. Ralph Hall, Jr. 7-23-13

 Every life has a calling. Mine has been, is, and will be a call to be courageous. Ralph Hall 7-23-13

It's not about being good, great, perfect, or imperfect - It's about being courageous. Following that kind of leadership will make you winners of more than softball games.

"We built these Champions by serving faithfully in the mission to which we were called."  Ralph Hall 11-5-2010

"The games have been, are, and will be played on the fields of hope." Ralph Hall 3-26-13

Leading good softball leagues for good softball players - good.
Leading imperfect softball leagues for imperfect softball players - great.
Leading with the twin realities of character and sportsmanship - priceless! Ralph Hall, Jr.

"If you think about it, talk about it, and write about it, YOU CARE about it." Ralph Hall, Jr. 9-19-2016

To recognize the mess - good
To understand the messages - great
To develop a heartfelt relationship with the Messenger - PRICELESS.
Ralph Hall, Jr. 10-5-16

"There is double honor for the mature, who leave the ballpark filled with awe and wonder! They are called to be the biggest winners and are chosen for higher purposes. Ralph Hall, Jr.10-13-16

 "This is softball by design and not a result of random, mindless, or purposeless misleaders." Ralph Hall, Jr. 10-13-16

Yes, we invited him. He wrote a gracious note to me. It said that he could not come play ball with us because of his declining health. Then his kindness and gentleness showed up.

The Texas Softball Hall of Fame is one place where the bright light of sportsmanship breaks the power of darkness. This “point of light” has shined the way for more than three decades, for millions of people, and in more ways than we ever imagined would be accomplished in softball.  Thank you, Ralph. George H. W. Bush, #41    

2023 to 1991 League Champions