Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Tis' the Season-BASKETBALL

In this video Trevor was around 18months old, possibly a little younger than that. We were all fascinated that this kid didn't miss many shots. At times he could shoot with one hand, or eyes closed and STILL make it. I actually showed him this video not too long ago because he tried to tell that he wasn't that good at basketball. You see, this is what happens with Trevor and I at the beginning of every sports season. We head outside to catch. or shoot, or throw the football. HE expects to be perfect from the get go. I know how to teach him how to be better than he can even imagine. SO, our stubborn forces collide. It usually ends in tears, one or both of us actually. When Trevor feels pressed upon, he comes back at you like a tiger. I admire that about him, he wears his heart on his sleeve. Even my calm and supportive attempts to perfect his shot are ORIGINALLY taken as criticism...and his feelings get hurt. As he shuts down...all the while grumbling, then....so do I. If I can't teach my own kid the lessons that I have learned...what the hell is wrong with me??? We both end up retreating to our corners...arms crossed and feet stomping. MATURE on my part:) But the fog always lifts. The next day...we are back at it and to my amazement...everytime...he has listened to every word. Then I witness the improvements with my own eyes....my heart whispers "SEE, Teamwork".

Hmmm...what would I do without Trevor? I honestly don't know. He is my dear and stubbornly sweet Italian boy. At times, I feel this 7 year old is wise beyond his years. At times, I wish I had his heart. At times, I want and need to put him in his place. But for sure, he has changed our family. When he is preforming in front of anyone that will listen, Mark and I look at each and shake our heads. When he makes plays on the field that seem uncharacteristic for a kid his age, we cheer from the cheap seats. I believe in this miracle. I have learned with Trevor that when dealing with issues: Head to Head can be a battle...more productive to go Heart to Heart.