I do not personally know Derek Jeter, New York 'Yankees' shortstop or Bryce Harper, Washington 'Nationals' outfielder. My words, therefore are offered through observation and sport's reporting. It is my perception. Jeter is retiring from baseball after some 20 years playing while Harper is in the early stages of his career.
'The Captain' as Jeter is affectionately called epitomizes the positive role-model attributes that sports' advocates have always desired in those who play the games at the elite level. In an era of microscopic news coverage of all entertainers and athletes, we have become somewhat accustom to the negative events involving our would-be-heroes. Jeter has demonstrated an unwavering pristine persona, which allows us to applaud both the talent and the person. In an age of obvious 'greed,' which finds athletes jumping from one team to another seeking money versus any concept of commitment and loyalty, Derek Jeter is a throw-back to a more honorable American life-style.
Bryce Harper is struggling as he attempts to 'find' a personal performing comfort zone with respect for the game, an understanding of 'team' and a humbleness; the is no question of Harper's baseball abilities. The tale of two talents...one will be enshrined in Cooperstown Hall-of-Fame; the other is 'finding' the way.
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