My firstborn went with me for today’s game of catch. On the drive to the field, and on the way home, she asked me the hard questions about life after high school. This time next year she’ll be in her last semester. That is an anxiety-inducing thought. Thankfully, for my sake, the drive to the field was short. On a beautiful day that felt 75 degrees warmer Tuesday’s game of catch, she warmed me up at Fassnight Field while we waited for one of my baseball heroes, Michael.
Michael and I grew up playing catch all over the state of Missouri. We talked about life, faith, girls, and baseball dreams as we tossed the ball. He’s a Cubs fan through and through and when I cheer for the Cubs, I cheer because of Michael.
Michael’s firstborn is starting his second semester in college. While we tossed the ball today, we continued our conversation of life, baseball, and trusting God’s presence as our kids grow up. Parenting has definitely stretched my faith.
For the second day in a row, I was able to stretch out my arm. It felt fantastic until my lead foot planted square in a mole hill.** Lesson learned: Be on the lookout for long toss mole hills.
After thirty minutes of playing catch, as we walked back to our vehicles, Michael turned to my daughter and said, “Most importantly, enjoy the process. Whether you’re auditioning for a college or playing at church, your most important audience absolutely delights in you.”
Thanks Michael for catch and conversation and don’t forget to tell your sister happy birthday!
**After further reflection, I really don’t think there was a mole hill out there. Maybe a mud hill? Or just a soft, lumpy outfield? Either way, Icy Hot and ibuprofen were required before bedtime. Long toss is now listed as day-to-day.
