You know some people say baseball is just a game, and some say there things to learn from the game like teamwork, hardwork etc... but today I was reading over my 13 year old's writing assingment and as I read I realized not only what a great kid but a life lesson learned with the game.
Exerpts from his essay follow:
"This past year was hard for me. I know what it is like to lose a close friend. Last year I played with a really cool bunch of guys. We played well. We once played a club team that had our number. At some point they became our rival. This past fall, I decided to play with them for a tournament. I knew I would end up playing there full time. Well, my best friend, *****, didn't like that. Now we harldy ever see each other, we never hang out."
"I also learned losing friends is hard, but what is best for you may not what your friend thinks. Through this process I have lost friends, gained some, but the lesson I learned is: Some choices are hard to make, and some sacrifices will have to be made with that choice"
His old team split up this fall. Some started a new team, with the dad of said friend, that holds a grudge because our son chose to go somewhere where we (son and family) knew he'd be challenged and playing top competition. He'd have coaches not influenced by parents and he could see for himself what kind of player he could become. Didn't realize how tough it was for him. We discussed ramifications with him prior to the switch so its not too much of a surprise. He loves his new team but it will certainly has been a growing experience for our son.
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I asked him about this and he absolutely has no regrets and would do the same thing over again. Just thought it a sad situation at such a young age (really thinking its the friend that is missing out). His parents think he made the right decision too and are thankful for the opportunity. And speaking of friends, I thought last night's practice was great. Did you notice how the whole team was just having a great time? I think they are going to gel together extremely well and we are going to have something extra special on our hands!!