Where You Are, Isn't Where You Have to Be

My Youngest Son
Originally uploaded by Jagrap

With their lack of experience, small size and lack of aggression football hasn't been a walk in the park for the boys, but last week practices contained good omens.

While walking Alex to practice I noticed that he was dragging a bit, but then his eyes lit up; he saw that the boys were playing some sort of game without shoulder pads, just horsing around. Like a bolt of lightning he was instantly in the fray having a good time.

Later, at Michael's practice, our little guy was overjoyed that he got a tackle in a scrimmage. Thrilled to the bone he told me, "I never look forward to going to practice, but I always have a good time."

That is manna for my soul. I need to keep reminding them that on my first day of football practice I was the slowest kid on the field, but 3 years later I was the fastest kid in my school and anchored the 4x100 meter relay; Where you are, isn't where you have to be.

On Sunday, Alex had his first slobbernocker block and Michael 'hurt' an offensive lineman, both boys defeating opponents a head taller. They may not end of up as football machines 3 years from now, but they are starting to get it.
RAP (9.16.2008)