No Tall Tale

Hidden Bloggers know my philosophy on the value of immersing yourself in good people.

One friend is the varsity baseball coach at a high school. He gets his hands in all aspects of leading the program - setting budgets, attending most every practice at every level from freshmen, bus trips, rescheduling, player fees, training, strategy, off season workouts, parents. Keeping in mind that spring baseball in Illinois means blustery wind, rain, mud and chill.

Another is a high school sophomore basketball coach. That sport's more of a chess match, a game of continuous motion. It requires a strong voice, agile thinking, nearly constant monologue. As a game of running, jumping, pushing, hustle, as well as teenager attention span and work ethic it often requires him to ramp his intensity to fever pitch to transfer energy and focus into the team. It's a job of many parts, with an artistry to it as well. He has to simultaneously communicate that he's in charge and that he's imperfect and wants to know what they think. He has to punish them and show his genuine concern for them. He's angry and kind, funny, sharp, organized. Thinks about the future while evaluating the present.

My guidance counselor friend assists over 20 kids a day sometimes, is close to the occasional police action on school grounds. He's a good listener for those who just need to talk, and also provides direction for people in need of answers. The emotional investment required is high, yet he recently found time to complete his Master's degree.

Patience is not my strong suit, but it helps to think of my friend who's a father of two extremely chatty boys under age ten. No matter how much sugar is running through their system or how busy, sick or tired he is, no "shut up" crosses his lips and there's no physical force or threat. He goes to events with them, coaches both of their basketball teams, gives them kisses and hugs and "I love yous". He chips in on the cooking, laundry and even occasional plumbing task. Helps his sister and his ailing mother. He somehow finds time to shoot me a text about once a week.

Maybe the most impressive thing about Ryan is that he's all of these role models at once. It would be truly cool to be half the man that he is!