Basketballs
bounce against hard wood floors, one handed dribbles, cross overs and slam
dunks. How do these things relate to parenting? This is how I spent 11 years of
my life, beginning with a micro basketball league when my son was six years
old. It sounds like a lot when you see this in writing.
My son
improved his skill at basketball, the more he practiced and played on organized
teams. I improved my parenting skills with each success…and failure. After a 5
on 5 basketball tournament, my young adult son came home with a trophy. On the
plate of the trophy were the words, “MVP-Most Valuable Player.”
Gripping the
trophy by the figurine, my son stretched his arm in my direction and said,
“This one’s for you Ma. You can keep this in your room.”
I placed the
prize possession on my dresser and told my son, “I’ll call this my Most
Valuable Parent trophy.” My heart felt warm as I thought about the hours spent
in gymnasiums- shouting, cheering and sometimes napping between tournament
games. A thought hit me as quick as a fly ball in baseball. My Mom on a Mission
goal was coming fruition…getting my kids through puberty.
My babies
are almost full grown…almost. Although they’re through puberty, my job has not
ended, but it has changed. My son must believe his role has changed as well.
While searching the store shelves for a multivitamin, I told my son to grab the
Gummie vitamins for me. His response was, “Aren’t you a little old for gummie
vitamins?”
I purchased
the gummie vitamins and when I got home, placed them on the dresser right next
to my MVP trophy. It was a symbolic reminder that I’m still the parent and I
can make my own decisions.
To all of
you who have sat in gymnasiums, football bleachers, at soccer fields or any
other events with your child, this award is for you too. You are a MVP – Most Valuable
Parent.
What has
been your MVP experience?
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