Stagedad,
How about the parents of kids who have watched them go from star of youth baseball - to toilet bowl - and then back again.
Do you think they might know a thing or two?
TPM - I thought that was really great insight - and I agree with what RJM posted about this generation of parents.
I think if you keep things as simple as you can - if you work really hard and play really hard whenever you get the chance - if you fight through the ups and downs with your head held up high - if you ignore the hype and the naysayers - and if you truly enjoy playing the game - you will have a good experience - regardless of the ultimate level you obtain or how others measure success.
I also think it helps alot if you can tactfully tell your parents to keep their mouths shut and act like adults and not like spoiled brats - if necessary.