You're never too old to learn

(Click on image to read.)

Well, I was busy learning a few lessons in life yesterday.

Life lesson #1

I guess sometimes you have to just sit back and allow your kids the room to grow...as painful as that can be for all involved. Let's just say things didn't turn out favorable for Ryan yesterday. He never explained to me the details of his meeting but basically told me the outcome was that he has to pay back a portion of his football scholarship money. As outraged as I am at the way this was handled, I must just step back and concede defeat. It's his money, his life and his decision to give up the fight. College football does not seem to consider the fact that college is the main focus, not football. Am I bitter? Perhaps.

The sad thing is we are going through this already with Josh. The football coaches are calling and sending recruiting letters and visions of glory are dancing in his head. Ugh. I don't want to toss a wet blanket on his dreams but after seeing what Ryan went through, I'm very leery on going through this all over again.

Not to say Ryan hasn't grown as a young man throughout this experience. Face it- It's not something everyone can say they've done. He spent 4 years of his life on a D2 College football team...he played in a few games, survived the rigorous training camps and practices, actually worked out and played with a few NFL football players! He's made so many friendships and has learned so much about himself through the process. How can I discourage Josh from having the same opportunities?

There just comes a time when you have to decide where your priorities and focus lie...and Ryan decided that he needed to spend his energies on his future career instead of sports. The decision to walk away was probably one of the most difficult decisions he's made thus far. It's time to move forward and not look back.

Life lesson #2

So another thing I learned yesterday is that no matter how old your kids are, they still need you. Even if it's mainly a financial need, or a roof over your head need, or a feed my hungry belly need, face it- NEED is NEED- whether you're an infant or 23 yrs. old...hell, I still need my mom for that matter! I don't know what I'd do without her. Sometimes when you're at wit's end, frustrated, excited, nervous, elated...you just need to talk to your mom because she has that certain element you just can't get from anyone.

Life lesson #3

When you're tired, hungry, or overwhelmed, it's best to just keep your mouth shut and go to bed. Mom always said, "if you don't have anything nice to say...say nothing at all".

Life lesson #4

Mom is always right.