“Opening Day” is a spirited ode to the beloved American pastime. With vivid imagery and infectious enthusiasm, David Ritter captures the essence of baseball season. From the anticipation of the first pitch to the joy of shared moments with fans, the poem celebrates the timeless appeal of the game.
Opening Day
As winter creeps to a defiant end
and spring bursts with flowers to send
One thing I long to hear one say
“Play ball!” on opening dayThe smell of hot dogs in the air
praying that a ball will land foul or fair
One thing my ears long to hear
the crowd erupting with sudden cheerNothing brings more joy to me
than when these eyes begin to see
the smile on a small child’s face
and my beloved team in first placeSo enjoy this moment while you can
There’s nothing like a faithful fan
Another season finally begins
with visions of World Series wins!David Ritter
My friend Graig Kreindler, a wonderful artist, gave me permission to use one of his paintings to accompany this poem. Be sure to visit Graig’s Facebook page to check out some fabulous baseball artwork and “Like” his page to support his work. Thank you. https://www.facebook.com/GraigKreindler
This painting is a painting of Wrigley Field on the morning of October 10, 1945–Game 7 of the World Series but I thought it could still be used for my poem Opening Day because of the large crowd and festive mood of the painting. My team is the Detroit Tigers who is yours?
Memories for Keeps includes captivating poems like “Gone Fishing,” “One Day to Live,” “The Fork in the Road,” and “Lost at Sea.” Dive into the pages and let your heart wander! Available for download or print on Amazon. For additional poetry collections and products, you can contact me directly at rittersrhymeandreason@gmail.com or visit the stores listed below. Memorial picture frames and books can also be found at my Etsy Store!!! CLICK HERE
- Faith Christian Stores
- Address: 4463 Miller Rd, Flint, MI 48507
- Phone: (810) 516-0706
- Amazin’ Mitten
- Address: 646 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734
- Phone: (989) 262-8010
- ONLINE SHOP NOW OPEN!!! CLICK HERE
MEMORIES FOR KEEPS
A collection of poetry that reveals one man’s feelings about the world around him. With spirituality the centerpiece of most of his writings, the author touches the hearts and minds of readers with hope, peace, love, humility, wisdom, and wit. While tackling topics ranging from grief to fatherhood, from addictions to friendships, this writer captures the essence of a born-again, alcoholic dad who is grateful to have finally found serenity in life. Today, through this collection of both old and new works, he shares that serenity with you!
BOTTLED MEMORIES
These stand-alone poems were written over many years. While individually they describe the conflicts associated with alcoholism, when read together they reveal a more complete picture of the destruction, depression, and chaos of addiction, as well as the peace, hope, and joy of recovery. Although most of these poems pertain to my life, it is my hope that other people will relate to them also. It’s not only my story but the story of so many others.