Violet skies , mist in the air , the forecast for football .

Last night we followed the football team to Pulaski for a preseason scrimmage . Just a trip down the Tennessee highways about 60 miles or so . Our daughter filled us in on her day at school . The talk did not stop for several miles . So much to listen to and catch up on . The skies had been misting and the steam was rising from the hills . The sun was falling from the summer , hot clouds , as only it can in Middle Tennessee . As we found our seat in the stands , the skies grew midnight , in a violet color . The air was heavy and damp . We wear our colors and have our line-up . Each parent is watching their number , hoping for the playing field time . Hopes , dreams , expectations , disappointments , wonder , aspirations and loss . A Friday night . A scoring game , missed plays , great plays , sportsmanship , poor leadership , a victory and a loss . Players who are struggling and those who are finding their place . Defense and offense . The games of life . Of course we want a winning season , no one likes to lose , but a young team with growing pains has much to conquer . Predictions are still out for counsel . The thing that isn't in debate is whether or not we will be there at the end of the game or the season . We must teach tenacity and dependablity through all avenues of life . Claim our seat for the season whether good or bad . Show support until the final seconds . Allow the negative remarks to be said by the coaches and not by us . Sit through the mist and the fog . One day the skies will clear , the air will be light and the game can be won . Keep the 7 day forecast for the weather . Keep our focus on young men learning to work hard , keep trying , being loyal , listening , pulling together and looking to the skies for new horizons .