I played Little League as a kid. I enjoyed it but learned I was more of a sports watcher than a sports player. Who knew I would actually learn more about myself as a Little League parent than as a Little League player. Here are some observations I wrote from my first season as a Little League parent. They originally appeared in a different venue.
LITTLE LEAGUE LESSON #1
Today is my son's first Little League game. I haven't posted about baseball yet because honestly I wasn't sure if he would like it, or even if he would be able to do it. But he loves it. His coaches have worked with autistic boys before and they are great with him. I am really proud of him. I have said this before but I am his dad so you have to indulge me -- Days like today take me back to before he was born and then in the hospital and NICU. Doctors were doubting that with his brain injuries and Cerebral Palsy and all of his health concerns that he would even be able to walk or talk or sit or crawl. And now here he is thriving and playing Little League. I am crying as I type this. God has blessed us with a remarkable miracle.
LITTLE LEAGUE LESSON #2
I had a great moment as a parent last night. This may get lost in translation but here goes. My son had just scored a run. He was in the dugout with his team. He stood up and started jumping and wildly flailing his hands. This is a common behavior for him and many with autism. People sometimes mock him for it because they don't understand he has autism. And his therapists say it will eventually need to be phased out because it will inhibit his ability to learn and adapt. But in that moment I knew what that behavior meant and I am so glad I got to see it. That behavior said I am having fun. I feel safe. I am excited. For me I don't think I have ever felt more content than I did right then. And about 3 hours later I felt intense gratitude to God for that moment.
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