Embarking on our eagerly anticipated outing to T-Mobile Park in Seattle, the route to the stadium was as straightforward as we had envisioned. Our expedition commenced with a monorail ride from our hotel, followed by a transition onto Seattle's efficient light rail system. Finally, we nestled ourselves amidst the camaraderie of baseball fans on a commuter train, making our way to our ultimate destination. A crescendo of anticipation built within us as we advanced, step by step, toward the unmistakable confines that house the Mariners Baseball team.
Our family was excited as made our way to the contest between the Seattle Mariners and the Baltimore Orioles. Blessedly, we had remarkable weather, rendering the retractable roof of the stadium unnecessary. Our visit to T-Mobile Park marked a significant milestone: the addition of the ninth pennant to our treasured collection, each emblem representing a different baseball park we've had the privilege of visiting.
The game unfolded before us, punctuated by Sylva's Cal Raleigh's awe-inspiring two-run home run in the opening inning. From our vantage point, the sweeping panorama of downtown Seattle unfurled, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the game. After the Mariners sealed the deal in the top of the ninth, a dazzling display of fireworks illuminated the night sky, a fitting tribute to the newly inducted Hall of Famer, "King" Felix Hernandez.
However, every adventure must eventually draw to a close, and it was time for us to bid adieu to the stadium. Fatigue tugged at our senses, and the impending dawn brought with it a promise of a busy day ahead. Yet, the return journey would prove to be a bit of a challenge. The exit from the stadium diverged from our entrance, leading us into a maze of darkness adorned with roads, overpasses, stairwells, and the chaotic rhythm of departing traffic.
Though following the throng of departing fans seemed like a good idea, a crucial realization held me back: I wasn’t certain how to get back to the train station. The allure of the crowd's familiarity and camaraderie was undeniable, yet it concealed a potential pitfall—the crowd might lead us astray. It was then that, with a twinge of reluctance from an unnamed family member, I employed a strategy I often resort to: seeking guidance. Approaching a helpful stadium employee, I inquired about the path to our intended destination.
This decision would prove pivotal. The reliable guidance of the stadium staffer charted a course that diverged from the movement of the crowd. As we traversed the labyrinthine path under the direction of this newfound guide, we realized that trust in the masses' presumed certainty could have led us astray. The stark contrast between the prudent counsel we received and the unpredictable course of the crowd underscored a valuable lesson.
The allure of the crowd can be enticing, particularly when surrounded by the comfort of the familiar. However, adhering blindly to the crowd’s movement can veil the true nature of one's trajectory. A sobering realization emerges: aligning with the masses can inadvertently propel us toward unintended destinations.
Wisdom, it appears, advocates for vigilance in the face of the crowd, urging us to recognize the temptation that emanates from the throngs around us. Think about it: Do you know where the crowd is going? Better yet, do you know where you need to be going? When uncertainty clouds our vision, it becomes imperative to halt our progression. Seeking counsel from a trustworthy source is the prudent course of action, especially when it veers away from the well-trodden avenues of the crowd.
In reflecting on the Gospels, we unearth an intriguing parallel. Countless individuals sought the presence of Jesus, forming fervent crowds that trailed his every step. Yet, within these narratives, we discover profound insights. In one instance, the crowd's fervor aimed to crown Jesus as a king, a plan that sharply diverged from his purpose (John 6:15). On another occasion, the masses dissipated when confronted with the challenges inherent in following Jesus's teachings (John 6:66).
Our family found our way back to our hotel in no time. As we learned, Seattle does a great job of getting people from one place to another.
Also, it helps when you know where you’re going.
Do you?