Sunday, March 13, 2016
Sports Mom
I have been sitting my at a lot of games this weekend. My daughter is playing basketball and softball right now. She loves playing ball. Athletics is her "thing" and this is where she shines. Even though we are constantly on the move, I love watching her compete. Sports were a big part of my life, too. I totally understand how she feels when your team hits a last second shot or you throw a pitch for a called third strike. Being in the spectator seat is new for me, though. The roller coaster of emotions you experience as a parent is even more incredible than playing in the game. It is so exhilarating to see Peyton, my oldest, make a great play. I love watching her aggressiveness and competitiveness. She is so strong and aware in the game, that I am overflowing with pride as I cheer her and her team on. However, that high of emotions can shift so quickly when she makes a bad play or throws the ball away. I feel every little bit of pressure resting on her shoulders, as she gets put on the mound to face a batter with 2 outs and bases loaded. She has to dig deep, focus and put it altogether in front of a crowd at the most crucial point of a game. I feel her pain as I wipe the tears from a loss and share a hug in celebration of a win. I guess what I didn't expect as a parent, was how you could want something twice as much for your child as you ever did for yourself. I didn't anticipate the feeling of not being able to "help" your child during a game, knowing they have to "fly" on their own, even if they fall down a few times first. Finally, I didn't realize the amazing amount of pride you feel in your child's accomplishments. What a bond I get to make with Peyton by being her biggest fan.
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No matter what they're doing, I think we're always our children's biggest fans. I still cheer or cajole when I talk with my son or daughter about their work, or their children. But I remember that first feeling you're describing. My son was playing soccer, & he was five. He sat down far out in the field & started playing in the dirt. I wanted very much to yell & tell him to get back in the game, but knew then that I had to depend on other adults to take care of it, and him! Interesting feeling, isn't it? And, a lot of pride when something is beautiful, as you wrote. Lovely to hear all about your daughter!
ReplyDeleteWatching our kids navigate life is an interesting seat to sit in. It's so wonderful that you and Peyton can share these moments together.
ReplyDeleteI think it's cool that you can relate on a personal level, having played yourself. My oldest played t-ball when she was little, and both of my children are band kids--I never did either of those activities. I can cheer them on, but not at the level of "knowing" that you can!
ReplyDeleteIt's so different having pride for your children than any other feeling. But it's also the worst feeling when you watch your child struggle and feel totally helpless. I miss those days of watching my kids find their niches. Enjoy every moment!
ReplyDeleteWatching our children change and grow is amazing. I feel so lucky to be able to be able to witness their lives unfold!
ReplyDeleteLucky Peyton to have mom in the stands cheering her on and supporting her!
ReplyDeleteRight now, my daughter, 5, only does dance. I have to spectate via a TV screen where I can't hear anything. Your post is motivating me to ask to sit in on the dance class this evening. Hopefully the teacher will say "yes."
That last line says it all...being your child's biggest fan. It's so true in all aspects of life.
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