In short, he got moved to the second slot in the lineup and proved he belonged there with his first at-bat. He hit a sacrifice RBI to score the lead-off batter who hit a triple. Made a great play in right field AND threw a runner out at 3rd base from left field. Then...pitched the final inning...
His coach calls me over and in front of Ben asks me if he can pitch. I expressed concern about him pitching earlier in the year because at this level, the boys are hitting hard and I wasn't sure his reflexes were quick enough due to his vision. I told them they are the ones who practice with him and if they thought he was ever ready, to let me know. Apparently they thought he was ready.
I was skeptical.
Ben begged from the dugout. "Mommmmmmm...plllllllllllease!"
So he did it. And he showed mom. He got a strikeout and threw someone out at first from his knees. I would've never known had I said, "No." He would have never had the chance to prove it to himself had he not tried. Looking back, I know the risk. But I also see the reward clearly.
Last night, he got his 3rd game ball this season. I have to say...as one proud mama...it was his best game yet. He played like a team-player and even though his team lost, he was proud of how he played. I was extremely proud of how he played. And as usual, I'm extremely proud of who he is.
Proud. Determined. Eager. Consistent. Compassionate. Attentive. Considerate. Loving. Sensitive. Expressive.
Way to go, Ben!
Always remember and never forget: With ordinary talent and extraordinary perseverance, all things are attainable. ~Thomas Foxwell Buxton
No comments:
Post a Comment