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It Cost to Be First

"You have to be odd to be number one."--Dr. Seuss            


I pushed my way through the crowd on Saturday morning, to find my seven year old grandson on the bench, which vexed my spirit.

It irritated me because:

he has been a natural baller from the womb,
he has had a ball in his hand before he could balance himself on his short legs,
he loves basketball more than snack time,
he has been preparing for this moment for as long as I can remember.

After about twenty minutes into the game, I was distracted by the coach's constant criticism. I couldn't tell if it was from a place of passion or frustration, but it offended my spirit.

I tried my best to "cheer" for the entire team, but the surrounding chaos competed for their attention.

There was another game going on at the same time, which made the whistles confusing to everyone.
The crowd swallowed up the gym up, so there was limited mobility.
And that yelling, was a bit extreme for "elementary level kids" that hadn't mastered the plays yet.

The "over thinker" in me was fueled to fire. I mean this couldn't be healthy! It made for a very uncomfortable experience.

My grandson was the newcomer, the shortest on the team, and played without his corrective lenses.

I'm certain that what sets you apart in life can feel like a burden and a blessing.

Even with the disadvantages and limited time on the court, he still managed to score for the team.

He maximized "the moment" by showing up as his best.

He made "the one shot" that he took.

Later on in the evening, I tried to talk to him about the coach's behavior, but he brushed me off and said it came with the sport. He focused on the highlight of the game--his contribution! Guess it was his subtle way of encouraging me to stay out my feelings. It wasn't personal (to him)!

I don't know if the coach was there to win, teach, or dominate the court.
I don't know if she was planting weeds or seeds.

I'll just take my life's cues from the little dude in the number one jersey! The real MVP in my book!

"If everyone else is to there to divide and conquer, the least we can do is stand together."-Chloe Crace Moretz


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