The Ball

This is a post from last year on another site...but is worth being re-visited.  I LOVE softball season!

I had never thought about it before, but this particular day sitting and watching my daughter in the dugout getting ready for the coming game, I had this overwhelming feeling of respect for her. She sat there by herself with her glove on and "the ball" in the other hand. I really focused on her hand holding that ball. She doesn't have a big hand, but she looked confident and in control.

This is the girl that wouldn't even consider t-ball or coach pitch because she was afraid to stand in the batter's box, because she was too embarrassed. Then in the 5th grade, a coach talked her into playing...and she WANTED to learn to pitch. So, since the 6th grade, she has been taking pitching lessons. She has gone from trying to throw a pitch over the plate to being in control of the plate. It amazes me what she has to remember...how to hold the ball, where to step in order to throw one of her six pitches hitting one of five locations...whew! All of this while holding a tough mental perspective...more than I could ever do!

I am proud of her and I have so much respect for her and how she handles pressure. This has made me think about my kids and the many other kids in our community and other communities that get involved in a variety of activities. Whether it be sports, clubs, music and arts or any other activity, these young people step out of their comfort zone to try new things. They work hard and practice to become better. They learn the value of teamwork and commitment. Without always knowing it, they are developing life skills. They take "the ball" and run with it. They experience the ups and downs of winning and losing...all of this a big part of preparing for the real world.

The next time you have the opportunity really take a look at what your child or another child you know is doing. Recognize the work they put in, the responsibilities and commitments they have shouldered and the way they have taken and managed "the ball" that has been put in their court. You will find a new respect for these young people, as I did that day in the dugout.