"But Dad, did you see my tackle?"

Anyone who knows me at all knows that I am an avid college football fan.  

 I love that sense of connection with humanity in cheering for a team. 

I love the feeling of watching athletes play their hardest and realize their dreams. 

And when the team I cheer for wins, I just love it.  

But winning isn't everything.  It really isn't.  And today I made a vow to myself to never lose focus on the game and what's really important. 

I went to my nephews little league football game, and let me tell you these things are legit.  Coaches yelling, concession stands, huge crowds, even a halftime show by little league cheerleaders (yes, 10 year old little cheerleaders.  Adorable).

Well, the Titans were losing... and it was bad.  But many of the little spirits on the sidelines remained hopeful and were antsy with anticipation of possibly getting to play. 

One of the boys saw his Dad coming to the sidelines and ran over to him.  I couldn't hear what was being said but I could see the Dad's face was tight with anger as he was "coaching" his son about some mistakes that had been made.  

"But Dad, did you see my tackle?" 

The Dad just shook his head and walked away.  As he turned his back, I saw the boys face fall.  The smile was gone, the spark in his eyes went out as he hung his head and walked back to the bench.

My heart ached for that boy.  What if that moment in his little league game he lost his dream?  

I was filled with gratitude... both for an earthly and Heavenly Father who never miss my "tackles" in life.  Who never chastise me from the sidelines... rather, they cheer me on and inspire me.  

May we all remember that both teams are playing to win in this life, and show a little more love encouragement towards one another. 

Grandpa supporting Collin and the Terrace Titans!  We love you bud!