Sideline coaching abounds…but we really need more cheerleaders <3

Hey! I have a really quick thought to share with you because today is jam-packed. I kind of hesitate sharing this one because it seems to put a total stranger in a bad light, but I am just reporting what I experienced and what I learned from it. 

On Sunday circumstances were such that I arrived at Joel’s last soccer game after the rest of his fan club. I was pulling my chair out of the bag to get set up when a dad from the other team walked in front of me. 

He apologized and then stepped behind me and mentioned that he was coming down to our end of the field because he was the goalies dad. I responded that he was more than welcome, we know those goalies need encouragement. 

His reply echoes in my head still. Partly because of the volume and partly because of the content. 

He declared loud and strong that he wasn’t there to encourage him but to keep him from doing something stupid. 

I was so stunned, none of the thoughts that came to my mind made it to my mouth. Thank goodness. 

For the rest of that half, the dad hollered a myriad of prompts and criticism. Many prayers were lifted for the kid and his dad. And yes, I did holler good job every time he blocked one of our attempts to score. 

But my takeaway is to personalize this and look hard at myself. 

Do I approach people and situations with the expectation that I am there to keep them from making a mistake? Or do I enter into relationships as a cheerleader for them? 

Something to think about. 

Blessings and go team!