The Joy of Soccer
We're full into soccer season now, with both kids playing. They each practice and play at least twice a week or more.
I'm loving watching my kids come out of their winter cocoons. They're already looking and sounding healthier with the increased activity.
So imagine my amazement to hear this complaint from a soccer mom at the game today: "I'm running one kid to one game, then another kid to practice, and we get to do it again tomorrow. I can't wait until this is over."
I can't wait until this is over...
How sad that a mother would view her children's happiness and well-being as such a terrible burden on her precious time. As my son would say, "Yeesh!" The soccer season here is just over a month. She can't be a little busy for five short weeks?
It is pure joy to watch my children grow in body and mind through play. I've never thought of their activities as a burden, whether it's a soccer game, a Cub Scout meeting, or a piano lesson.
In fact, it's an honor for me to participate in their lives. I really can't imagine anything more important.
Permalink posted by Phil at 12:05 AM
7 Comments:
I'm the same way. I LOVE love the kids sport. I love seeing them so passionate about the sport. Seeing them interact with their friends. Like you say - it is such a privilege
The point you made is so obvious, and unfortunately so prevalent: Many people are so focused on the "destination" that they miss the joy of the journey. Children make mistakes, make messes and make our lives so busy that sometimes in the stress of the moment we feel like saying, "Why don't you grow up?"
...And then they do.
I love love love watching my kids play soccer. I am sad to say one of mine chose not to play Spring ball (she is the ONLY one of her friends that turned 8 before the season)...It has been a bit sad to watch all of the others play and not her. My Oldest boy scored his first EVER goal on Saturday!! WHHOOOO HOOO!! It's a FUN responsibility! Yes, stressful...but sometimes a good bit of stress is fun!
Some people are just born complainers. I usually just ignore them or mention how the happy the kids look. And, some people are just selfish.
There are times I get tired of all the planning, coordinating, and transporting. Getting half way there and someone forgot something. Now were late. I try to look at the bigger picture and relax. Things usually work out. It's a skill though. I'm much better at it now than I use to be.
While I see your point, I can also understand the other mom's perspective. I love being a mom. I love being with my kids. I do consider it a privledge to be part of their lives. However, that doesn't mean I have to love everything that is for their happiness or well being. I don't love changing poopie diapers. I don't love cleaning up potty training accidents. I don't love cleaning up throw-up. All these are for their happiness and well being, I love my kids, thus, I do them. I don't think you have to love every last part of motherhood to prove you love your kids.
That said, I think we have to be careful what we say within ear shot of our kids. It's one thing to let down your guard within the safety of a group of moms who understand motherhood isn't always peaches and cream. It's another to make your kids feel like they're a burden.
My son is 18 and so after State Cup next month, his club soccer days are over. It's going to break my heart.
I'm also going to miss the other team parents almost as much as I will miss watching him play; we've been a pretty tight group for the past 8 or 9 years.
Oh well, at least my 13 year old daughter is still playing!
Enjoy it while you can; it doesn't last forever, and it can be taken away any second.
Our soccer season also started in March, first match is Sunday so I'm sure to get some photo's up!!
I sometimes get a bit tired of driving kids around too but after reading your post I re-adjust my thoughts and also knew before I know it they are big and out of school and I am really gonna miss that.
Go Soccer!! LOL
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