I sit on the sidelines and I’m in awe of you. I watch around me as other parents yell and scream. I can’t bring myself to do that because that’s not me and you. Son, I’m proud of you no matter what. You have the courage to do what scared the heck out of me at your age.
To me, this game is 60 minutes of your whole life and in the grand scheme of things your performance during these 60 minutes will not make or break you. This performance is one tiny moment of your life. I don’t care if you miss the basket. I don’t care if you didn’t make the goal. I could care less if you lost the game for your team. To me, you’re more than that. Your dreams and aspirations do not depend on this game. You’re already so hard on yourself and one day you will understand that this moment in time is fleeting.
I’ve watched you learn important lessons through sports. Lessons you probably wouldn’t have learned if it wasn’t for your dedication to play. I’ve seen you grow into a young man who’s more assertive, not afraid to take risks and a young man who knows when sports need to take a back seat in order to concentrate on academics. The fact that you can manage school, sports and clubs at your age, makes me so extremely proud.
You’ve been patient with me. I don’t know the rules of the game and you’re OK with that. I don’t understand the calls and you explain them to me. I’m not able to attend every game due to work and you cheer me up when I should be cheering you on. It’s almost like we’re speaking two different languages but you take the time to teach me.
Sports was never my thing. I hated P.E. class. I was always the last to be picked for the team during recess or gym. Trying out for any sport was not a goal of mine. I was more debate club than soccer club. I kept my head in the books and rarely looked up. Until you came along. You make me watch ALL of the sports and are helping me find an appreciation for it.
Son, I’m sorry I’m not a sports mom. I’m sorry that I’m not on the sidelines every weekend. I’m sorry that I don’t know all of the rules. I’m sorry that I never know the score. I’m sorry that I don’t understand the plays. Honestly, I’m just so proud that you have the courage to get on the field and always do your best.
