Getting sidetracked is easy (and that’s a good thing)

My beautiful wife and I began our journey last week with the intention of simply watching both of our girls compete in their second cross country race. Having been forced to miss their first meet due to prior obligations, we were rather excited to take part in the process of cheering on our little ladies. As we followed the school bus to the location of the competition, the natural surroundings and calmness added to our ultimate relaxation and enjoyment of the time away from our busy schedules. The natural beauty of the location which was chosen for the race overshadowed our memories of past meets where the long walk to the start and finish line tested the will of not only the competitors but likewise the parents who chose to attend and cheer on the young athletes striving to find their moment of fame.

As we followed the directions of the parking attendants, my angst began to rise, as I watched the long string of vehicles parked along the roadway. With much regret, well, honestly not too much regret, this past year has not been the best for me fitness-wise and with the added cheeseburgers, cake, and other delicious options out there my year has been one of added weight and declined endurance. With my awesome “dad bod” on full display I did my best to convince my mind that it was for the girls, and I would surely make it without the ambulance being called.

To our surprise, as we exited our vehicle and prepared for our journey on foot, we were met with one of the most beautiful things I can recall seeing in quite a while. The pristine golf cart, parked directly behind our vehicle, was intended to shuttle us to the location where viewing the race would be easier, according to the young driver. Surprised, yet grateful, we looked at each other and jointly experienced a sigh of relief. The couple in the vehicle next to us evidently had similar thoughts and feelings because although the cart was nearer to me, I could see the man looking intently. Like the scene from an old western movie the man and I stood several yards apart, sun glistening, breeze slight, we were preparing for the showdown. A showdown where the prize was a one-way trip of luxury along the winding path of the elementary cross-country world. I knew it was now or never, so I quickly motioned to my wife, who evidently saw the duel unfolding and was very committed to secure our escort. Quickly we preserved our seats. I wont lie, I may have inadvertently smiled as I waved at my momentary adversary while we drove away, wishing them the best, as they waited for their ride.

As we arrived at the playing field the mood was electric. With excitement abounding, we wished our little athletes well and passed on little tidbits of strategy to each of them. My wife and I had decided that I would remain at the start line and Leona would hurry to the finish line where I would meet her after both girls made it past my location. As I heard the starting gun, I watched as one of our girls ran by. A short time later our second passed me, smiling, and taking in her newly found adventure. When out of sight, I quickly moved towards the finish line which was a couple hundred yards away. As I arrived, I could see Lilli across the lake nearing the final turn to the finish. I could see she was in a tough battle with another athlete, and I instantaneously became “that parent”. My encouraging voice and cheers for my child could be audibly heard across the lake and I’m relatively certain throughout the county. As Lilli crossed the finish line, I felt a pride for her accomplishment and refusal to succumb to the agony of long-distance running. I quickly congratulated her and turned my attention to the far side of the lake where her sister could be seen.

Shouts of encouragement and excitement again flowed from my mouth as Riyann coasted into the finish line, encouraging another little girl she had met along the path of the race. Finishing the race, Riyann walked up to the girl and provided some encouraging words. Without hesitation, she then walked up to her mother and began showing her the feather she had found along the way. Describing she found the feather while she was running, my wife and I stood in awe at the pure innocence of the child.

Although spending countless hours talking to the girls about the fine art of competitive sports the concept simply hadn’t taken hold in Riyann’s mind. For her it was more about the journey along the way. Be willing to get sidetracked sometimes, my friends. Life is difficult and centering constantly on the finish, avoiding all the flowers and feathers along the way, results in a pretty bland adventure. For Riy, the pain and suffering of cross-country are made bearable because of the friends she meets, and relationships she builds along the way… that and the awesome and beautiful things she discovers along the way. I so want to grow up to be like this child!

Richard J. Stephens lives in Carter County and is the father of three little ladies ranging in age from eight to 29.