Stealing Third

When do you steal third?  When they don't think you will.  Right?

So, stealing second is a little...what's the word...boring?  Ok, that might be strong.  Let's say "predictable".  The right situation in a tight game.  Why not, right?

It's stealing third that takes some skill.  Speed, yea.  But smart.  Ah!

See Jesus, cornered by the minister and priest.  They ask him "What's the greatest commandment, rabbi?"

Trick question, right?  All the ten commandments carry equal weight.  So, do you keep your foot on second for fear of being thrown out in a tight situation.  No, you go, you try to steal.

Love God (respect the mystery) and love each other (just be nice, will ya).  Double gotcha to the priest and minister.  Standing on third, dusting off the dirt.

One could argue that Jesus was subsequently thrown out trying to steal home.  Seems like all the great ones are.  Safe or out, the question is whether or not to take the risk.  The risk has to - by definition - precede the results.

Standing with your foot firmly planted on second is...what's the word...boring?  Well, no.  It's predictable if the score is 10-0 late in the game.  You can usually tell who's winning by watching the baserunners.

(PS...sorry for the extended sports metaphor.  Eventually everything comes down to baseball.)