As the Invitational began, I found a dry spot on the bleachers, settled in and waited for the next event to start. I found myself watching all of the other parents anticipating upcoming events and heats. I happened to move over so that a mom could sit next to me and we struck up a conversation. I recognized the mom and started going through the video Rolodex in my mind wondering where we had met. Then it struck me. She was the Mom of the young lady I spoke of in "A Tale of 2 Dads."
Heart started pounding pretty quickly and I asked her if she remembered me from the front desk at our Y. She nodded and quietly responded, "That was a bad day." We introduced ourselves and I asked where dad was today. "He chose to stay home." I sighed and she smiled. We spent the next couple of minutes talking of the ordeal that I had witnessed and I told her that I wanted to hug her daughter that day and tell her that I was proud of her. She didn't have to say many words, her eyes spoke volumes. Of embarrassment and confusion. She wanted to make excuses for him but she couldn't. I just tried to remind her the importance of Dad loving her daughter unconditionally, cheering her on through the victories and of course hugging her after defeat.
Mom and I got to spend several events together. It seems as if at many of the Invitationals, our daughters will be competing in the same events. I am praying that The Lord uses me with this family.
By the way, the daughter in the story had her best personal times in each of her events. She was incredible!
Mom and I got to spend several events together. It seems as if at many of the Invitationals, our daughters will be competing in the same events. I am praying that The Lord uses me with this family.
By the way, the daughter in the story had her best personal times in each of her events. She was incredible!
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