A legendary figure in baseball history, Willie Stargell was renowned for both his spiritual convictions and his skill on the field. Stargell, who was born in Georgia in 1940, became one of the most renowned players of his time after joining the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1962.
A strong sense of faith that led Stargell both on and off the baseball diamond is encapsulated in his statement that he fears God and worships him with all of his heart and life. For Stargell, religion was a way of life rather than merely an external activity. He felt that he should incorporate spiritual principles into all facets of his life.
Think of faith as a house's foundation. In the same way that a solid foundation guarantees the stability and durability of any structure, Stargell saw his faith as the compass that kept him going through both good times and bad. This mindset was reflected in his approach to baseball, as he played to uphold his beliefs in addition to winning.
In a time when athletics frequently emphasize individual accomplishments over moral principles or religious convictions, Willie Stargell was unique in that he was candid about how his faith shaped his decisions in life. He believed that being a dedicated follower of his religious path and being a professional athlete were inseparable.
In addition to baseball fans, Stargell's legacy continues to motivate people who are trying to strike a balance between their private and public lives. He exhorts people to live true to themselves and follow their principles in every aspect of their lives.