Lately I've been practicing to try and live in the moment. You know, to enjoy life as it comes. With that in mind, my son, Aaron, who is a high school senior, played his last varsity basketball game last night. Even though I was determined to live in the moment during the game, I couldn't help but think throughout the day about all of the events that led up to last nights game.
He first hit the hardwoods as a third grader and over the years developed into a lightening quick triple threat that made basketball fun to watch. The long road to last nights culmination of a career has been filled with lots of practicing at the recreational, travel, A.A.U. and school levels. There were the 10,000 free throws practiced in our driveway over the last 10 years. There were game winning baskets and a few turnovers along the way. There was the excitement on his face when he made the school team for the first time. There was the honor of being selected as team captain for six consecutive years during his middle school, freshman, junior varsity and varsity campaigns. He was a quiet leader on and off the court.
So as I entered the gym last night, it was with those memories as the backdrop that I settled into the stands to enjoy one more performance from a 5'9" senior from Stewartstown, Pennsylvania. Perhaps more so last night than at any other game I tried to focus on the enjoyment and intensity that was captured on his face at various points throughout the night. From the introduction of the starting lineups to the final curtain call for each of the seniors as they were substituted for in mass with 2:29 remaining in the fourth quarter, I soaked in the ambiance of a chapter of his life and mine that was coming to an end.
After the game I met Aaron on the court and I put my arms around him and told him how much I loved him and how proud I was of him. As he turned to hug his mother, one of his friends saw me and said, "You aren't crying are you Mr. Kirby?" Of course, I turned away and said, "No, I think I just have something in my eye."
Thanks for the memories, Aaron.
Be Well.
Bill
