The main person to influence Jackie Robinson was Karl Downs, a young minister. Karl Downs had the ability to communicate with others spiritually. According to Jackie Karl was fun to be with and always participated in sports with the children of the neighborhood. Jackie often visited Karl in times of personal crisis. "Karl was like a father to me," stated Jackie, "he was always there when I needed him most." Karl's presence and dedication meant more to Jackie then anyone could fathom, considering Jackie's father left him and his family at a young age. …
