What do you tell him?

Our son wasn't happy after the scrimmage. He feels his position is slipping away. The hurt is written all over his face. The hurt we feel, for him, cannot be expressed. As a parent it is so difficult to watch your child going through mental anguish. I know it isn't life threatening like many things, but do I really say it doesn't matter? How can I, when I know how much this means to him. This is where parenting is humbling. Football is a cruel sport. The most demanding and competitive. As I waited up for our son, I searched for words. I know the bus ride was a long one. I know the words of his coach rang in his ears the whole way home, "if you aren't happy with your playing time, then have a great week of practice and you can win a starting position. Learn to compete with your team mates inorder to get better. Give up and quit or compete." As our son walked through the den with his head down, I spoke to him and ask him how he felt. He sat down slowly and looked at his hands. I feel the emotion consuming his face. Is he hungry? Of course not. What can we do? Love him. Listen. NEVER, NEVER, avoid talking with him and listening to his concerns. I tell him no matter what happens, we always want to talk to him after every game, regardless of his play. He says alright. His dad tells him about the hurt and anger he felt as a player. The room is tense. The air tight. The night is late. The steps are hard. The pace isn't for the weak. We are all worn out. He needs a good shower and some sleep. Monday comes in two days. He must face the grid once again. He must challenge his opponent the entire practice and challenge himself. What do I tell him? I am always proud to be his mother and he never has to fight for our love. There isn't any competition for that.