There are so many cycles of ending chapters with flowing tears of sadness and release. Today was the closing of a chapter… my son played his last hockey game in youth hockey. He was a ‘super senior’ this season, meaning he has graduated from high school but still eligible to play within the 18U category. Our team made it to the final game of the state sponsored tournament. He took a hit and a fall and all the pain hurt loss of the past several seasons came upon him and he broke, unable to play any more. Emotional as I was going in to the game, I did not expect it to end this way. Not with his talent and skill and love for the game. I prayed for a ‘miracle’ victory over a more dominant team. I prayed for grace that I may not break down in my own emotions. Yet, in the car after, I could only see my son, tears falling from his eyes, broken and hurt. There is much to say here about his journey and the great unfairness-es of youth sports as well as the more personal pain that results in shattered hearts. For now, this is a close on a remarkable adventure. And with all such tales, there is much to ponder and reflect upon. Thank you, dear son of mine, for letting me accompany you. You brought joy to all who watched you play. You made your own way. You did nothing wrong. You are not a failure. I am proud of you and I am always your biggest fan.