Field of Dreams | July 2019

Dear friends,

This year for my birthday I spent my day in Cooperstown, NY watching my son do what he loves most – play baseball! When we found out he made the team, my husband jokingly told my son that it was up to me if we go since it will be my birthday week. Without hesitation, I said “yes, of course!” I mean, what mother wouldn’t want to support her child to experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to master his craft and do what he enjoys most in this world? There is no other place I’d rather be than encouraging my son to experience all that this baseball opportunity has to offer.

Samuel hitting a 3-run homer!

As I reflect on my own childhood I am reminded how I did not have that same privilege or support. When I was my son’s age, I didn’t have a passion for anything like he does for baseball. As a parent, I believe we all intrinsically want to encourage and support our children’s passions. And yes, I realize that there is a fine line to walk when being encouraging while also remaining realistic, when it comes to big dreams.

My son’s dream since 1st grade has been to become a major league baseball player. Some would argue that to foster a dream like that is unrealistic. Yet, I choose to believe that with dedication and discipline, he can achieve that dream. I choose to encourage him to dream big because, quite frankly, no one ever encouraged me to do so. My experience was quite the opposite. Be careful what words you speak into your children’s lives because they might just believe you or, worse yet, cause them to never dream again.

This is where we, as parents, have to be careful about pushing our own agendas and limiting beliefs versus nurturing our children’s own genuine desire to go after their dreams. If I knew then what I know now, my life would be vastly different. Yet, life is a journey and we each have our own path to pave. Some find their passion and calling in life at an early age and others, like me, need time to to tears and one that I will never forget!

For me, I don’t want my son to have any limiting beliefs about who he is or what he can and cannot accomplish in life. I am enamored with his genuine love for the game. As a Mom, I want nothing more than to do what I can to cultivate the passion he has for baseball and to provide as many resources that I can to help him grow in maturity, wisdom and skill.

So, whatever the future holds for my son, I would joyfully spend every one of my birthdays at the yard, his field of dreams, watching him play ball. And, if you’re looking for me, I won’t be hard to miss – I’ll be the Mom cheering the loudest… guaranteed!

To all of you out there, may you be encouraged to step out in

faith and follow your dreams!

Love your biggest fan,

Rica