For those who don't know me, I am a little bit competitive. Okay, maybe more than a little. When Sam first started sports, I watch with intensity, waiting for the day when I can teach him to trash talk (in a good, Christian way). Sam, it seems, did not inherit this trait. In fact, he really doesn't like to compete against anyone, because he considers everyone a friend. Nice, but not very competitive.
To top that off, his sport of skill seems to be swimming. He's fine with racing against the clock instead of racing against other kids. He loves it.
Fortunately for him, and for me, he's selected a sport I know little-to-nothing about. Yes, I took my first camera to a swim meet for its maiden voyage. Yes, I knew kids on the swim team, and even wanted to be on the swim team at one point in high school. But really, I know nothing about it. Everything is new. The timing of the meets (early), the pace of the events (fast), the requirements for team pictures (the uniform-- you would have thought I'd have grasped that one). So, though I want him to do well, and I want him to win, I really have no idea how to help him do it. I don't know any tricks or tips for swimming. When he bats, I can tell him to watch the ball or swing level. When he dribbles, I can tell him to think about a string tying his hand to the ball like a yo-yo. But with swimming, I've got nothing. Hold your breath? Reach? At least hit the wall.
My desire for him to succeed is no less, but my need to interfere is eliminated by my lack of knowledge. And really, that's good for both of us, because my intensity doesn't drive him from something he genuinely likes to do.
Don't worry about me. I'm a fast learner. By the time Kate starts swim team, I'll be full of suggestions.
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