Help grow little leaguers

Watching my ten year old grandson play baseball is pure pleasure.

In our rural town, parents, siblings, and grandparents attend and cheer for the success of “Their” team. Tents are erected, coolers are packed with everyone’s favorite food and drink,  and sunscreen is passed around the stands.

The small boys try so hard, and their success and failure shows on their faces. They know when they do well and when they don’t – they don’t need spectators yelling their faults from the stands. I would LOOOVVE if adults did not expect children to perform like adults, and if those same adults would behave like adults and set good examples.

On the dugout fence is a sign that is worthy of duplication.

HE’S JUST A LITTLE BOY

He stands at the plate with his heart pounding fast; The bases are loaded; the die has been cast. Mom and Dad cannot help him; he stands all alone. A hit at this moment would send the team home. The ball nears the plate; he swings and he misses. There’s a groan from the crowd, with some boos and hisses.

A thoughtless voice cries, “Strike out the bum!” Tears fill his eyes; the game’s no longer fun. Remember – he’s just a boy who stands all alone. So open your heart and give him a break For it’s moments like this a man you can make Keep this in mind when you hear someone forget. He’s just a little boy, not a man yet.

Truly, I am proud of the spectators at my grandson’s team; they do plenty of yelling, but their words offer encouragement and kudos. They show others what is appropriate and how to improve their odds when growing a boy into a young man.

Until the next time: Live while you live!