Returning to Mobile with her son and grandson, Ozzie Smith gives local youth a powerful message of perseverance.

A striking picture of three generations standing at the nexus of the past, present, and future was created when the renowned shortstop, now 70, arrived with his son Dustin and infant grandson Kingston. 

Smith said to the group of people gathered beside Water Street, "You only get out of life what you put in." "You should not expect anything in return if you do not put anything in. That is life.

A Heritage Integrated Baseball, Sweat, Blood, and Bronze

Smith's visit was a part of a larger celebration for Mobile's beautiful new park, the $11 million Hall of Fame Walk, which honors the city's remarkable concentration of Major League Baseball legends. Mobile's influence on the sport is immense and indisputable, since it is home to more Hall of Famers per capita than any other U.S. The statues, which artist Brett Grill laboriously created over several years, are time capsules as well as monuments.

Grill remarked, "These monuments represent these guys." "They give them the respect they merit."

Smith was unable to attend the park's initial ribbon-cutting in June, despite being elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2002 for his incredible defensive skills and acrobatics. He made up for missed time this week, though, by joking with children, remembering his origins, and seeing his grandson's momentous occasion.

From the Sandlots of Mobile to the Brightest Lights of MLB

Even though Smith moved to Los Angeles when he was six years old, the city will always hold a special place in his heart.

He grinned and remarked, "This will always be my birthplace." "Seeing such a lovely city again is a pleasant experience. There is always something fresh and motivating when I come back.

Mobile's influence was evident even in his earliest baseball recollections, such as throwing balls back to slugger Amos Otis. A single, especially moving moment? Willie McCovey, a fellow Mobilian, delivered his first major league hit.

Smith said that his mother's favorite player was McCovey. "She thought that was the nicest thing ever when he handed me the ball after I got my maiden hit."

Flowers, Family, and an Emerging Future

Dustin, Smith's kid, thought the scene was unreal.

Dustin expressed his gratitude to the City of Mobile for paying tribute to his father while he was still alive. People are frequently honored after they pass away. However, it is a blessing to receive your flowers while you are still alive.

Kingston, who is only a year old, was undoubtedly the highlight of the day, even though he may not yet fully comprehend its significance. Sandy Stimpson, the mayor of Mobile, gave him a city pin and even gave him some mayoral encouragement during a brunch event.

"You will be able to explain how we did something unique for your grandfather one day," Stimpson remarked.

Former Atlanta mayor Andrew Young and Billye Aaron, the late Hank Aaron's widow, were also in attendance. Young spoke passionately about his buddy Hank and the humility that accompanied even historic events, such as his renowned 715th home run.

Young remarked, "He would have been flattered." However, he would never discuss it. I think he was the most modest individual I have ever met.

The Road Is not Gold Paved

Ozzie Smith did not sugarcoat his achievements for the young aspirants in Mobile. His message was strong and straightforward.

"Whether we choose to be or not, we are role models," he stated. Additionally, there are obstacles in the way of achievement. It is challenging. You must work hard. You must earn it.

For Smith, that route runs from the dusty neighborhoods of Mobile to Cooperstown's Hall of Fame and back again, now with his grandson at his side. The hope? that Kingston might proudly declare, "That is my grandpa," while standing in that same park one day.

Smith will continue to come back till then. to guide. should keep in mind. to return the favor.

He expressed his hope that his grandson will return and continue that tradition.

Suddenly, a new chapter is written, not just in bronze but also in the heart.