I Need A Drink

So, this morning was probably one of the most trialing yet most rewarding days of being a parent.  Let me first start by saying that if you know Talon, then you know he has some social anxiety. Example, It took 3 school plays before he would actually get up on stage and participate. He does not like new situations and really does not like being the center of attention. He's been like this his entire life. Once he's comfortable, he's fine. It's just getting over that hump that is the challenge. And this morning, it was a challenge.

    Talon loves playing basketball. He loves to dribble, loves to shoot , and not being biased but he's really good. We signed him up to play Jr. Pro at Lincoln Trail, and today was the tryouts. Talon has been excited about doing it, until today. We were on our way to tryouts and Talon told his Dad and I that he didn't want to do it. He just didn't tell us he didn't want to do it, he showed us by kicking, screaming, and crying. It was so bad, I really wanted to say, "Forget it, you don't have to do it," then send him on with his Dad while I went straight to the closest bar to have a drink, or 10. If Talon genuinely didn't like basketball and didn't' want to play, I wouldn't force him too. I'm not that parent. However, I am the parent that tries to always look at the deeper issue, and realized that the only reason he didn't' want to do it was because he was scared. It was a new situation, he wasn't confident enough in his basketball skills, and he was afraid the other kids would laugh at him. And he finally admitted those were the reasons.

It took 2 trips to the school (against his will), crying, yelling, fit throwing, him denouncing his Dad and I as his parents, lots of pep talks, and an ultimate bribe before he would finally do it. But he did it. And let me tell you, watching him dribble that ball like a pro, shoot it and make it, and see that smile on his face, a face of confidence, literally brought tears to my eyes. The tears were mostly of happiness, but I also think some of the them were tears of sadness because  new situations like this create so much anxiety for him that it hinders him from doing what he loves. We walked back to the car to leave and it was like I was with a completely different kid. He was happy, excited, and couldn't stop talking about how excited he is to play on a team. He faced his fear, and I can't explain how proud I am of him.

 

 

Talon = The next MJ.
Don't believe me? Watch these videos. Keep in mind, he was 3. I'll post updated ones later.

Talon Age 3

Talon Age 3

As a parent, you want the best for your child. I want the best for Talon, and I never want anything to hold him back from happiness. Hopefully this social anxiety is something he will outgrow over time but in the meantime, I pray that God continues to give me the knowledge, and patience, to help him get through it.

Aaaaand  lots of bottles of wine. :)