Cheer camp, football practice, getting there

Well, this week is going to be a busy week. My daughter is preparing to go to cheer camp to compete with her squad. It is a stressful time, in that, she will learn new dances, cheers, and test her physical strength to the limit. There is little down time since she must learn so much. We finished getting everything on her list last week and she has organized her stuff. Also, my son starts back with two a day football practices. He dreads the heat and effort it will require to make it. It will test him mentally and physically. How do I help my children get there? I am not talking about driving the car. I am talking about them finding what they need deep inside to make it. In all honesty, all of these teenager stepping stones are opportunities to become adults. My children will have the chance to be a leader, encourager, give help, step up, show strenght, be dependable, and listen. This week will give my daughter the chance to work hard, have fun, make new friends, challenge her wit and grow emotionally. This week my son will have the chance to see if he has what it takes to make it on the squad. He must find out for himself if he wants to work as hard as he must to play ball or just be on the team. He will push himself. He will feel like quitting. He will wonder if he can make it. Sounds like life, doesn't it. My daughter will pack her bags and I will take her. My son will eat right, run and I will take him. When I go to watch my daughter compete, she will know that I believe in her ability, and I will be waiting for her after it is all over. When my son finishes practice, I will be there. I will listen if he talks or I will be silent if he is worn. We will definitely get there.