Simple Cheering
I am a football fan.

I was a “football mom” and got into the game with great gusto when my youngest son was playing.

But my husband and I witnessed something Saturday at my 12 year old nephew’s game that I have only witnessed maybe twice before.

Ignorance
Plain ‘ole ignorance.

The team was losing, and I will admit there were some poor calls. But a handful of parents were screaming…at every call made, every hit made, every single solitary move on the field came with a screaming rant. Not yelling encouragement to the boys….screaming.

It was bad enough that these parents were screaming at their own children, but then they began screaming at the children on the other team! There were derogatory, negative comments being hurled at the other 12 year olds…by parents!

Thankfully, the game ended before my husband and I could stand anymore. We both were ready to discuss this, but it would fallen on deaf ears. These parents would not have listened…that indeed did not have “ears to hear”. I think that they thought they were doing the “right thing.”

HOW SAD.

Unfortunately, one of the things I use to say as a teacher sometimes was that “once you meet the parents, you understand the students”.  Sad, but so true.

What were these parents teaching their children? You are right. That screaming and yelling like little two year olds (worse) was the way to make your point and make it right. Nothing could be further from the truth.

HOW SAD.
So much for sportsmanship.

Then we return home to the news of the abuse of children and wives in the NFL. Seriously?

I guess it should be no surprise at the lack of respect children have for adults, others and themselves. We must teach them better.

Where does our responsibility lie? What should we do as observers?

“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 7:12

Follow the life of Jesus and none other. Follow the Golden Rule. Treat others as you yourself want to be treated. Show your own children personal heroes that truly make a difference.

Those who treat others in a manner worthy of being called heroes……..

Soldiers, leaders of philanthropic, non-profit organizations, etc.

I shouldn’t be surprised. I am just sad.

May we be examples to those around us…in Jesus’ name.

~Be blessed
IN CHRIST ALONE