After watching the Colts disappointing loss a few weeks ago, it reminded me of a similar experience I had playing basketball in the 8th grade.   My older brother was the star of the high school team and this was the night I finally got my chance to shine.  The coach had chosen me as captain of our team for the night and I was going to get to start against the big city team from Fort Wayne.  

This was my big opportunity and I was really excited; that is until they made the first basket and began pressing all over the floor.  Since I was playing guard, it was my responsibility to bring the ball up-court.  I’d never seen anybody that fast or tall or with as long of arms in all my life.  After throwing the ball away twice, then getting a jump ball against me, the coach finally called time out and mercifully put me on the bench for the rest of the night.  

If you haven’t faced something similar to this in your child’s life, then they probably aren’t old enough yet.  Disappointments are going to come at some point in their life and I believe it is your job as a parent to be there for them when it does.  Although I’m no expert, here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

1.        Be a good listener – there were no words that could console me after that game, but I did want somebody with a compassionate heart to listen to me.

2.        Have empathy –No matter how old your children are, disappointments are never easy to take.   Try to put yourself in their shoes and react accordingly.

3.        Encourage them – remind them that disappointments are a part of life, but trying their best is the most important thing.  

4.        Love them – usually a good hug and telling them you love them can make all the difference.

No matter how disappointed your child may be, it is important to remind them that God loves them and so do you.   It is that love and encouragement they will remember and will hopefully pass down to their own children someday.  Until next week … Walk in Love.


Lord, I know there are always going to be disappointments in my life and in the life of my child / children.  Help me to be a good listener for him / her and encourage him / her with whatever life has thrown their way.  Give me your heart and let me share positive words with him / her so that he /she can grow from this experience.  Most of all, help me to love him / her the way You do.  In Jesus name.

Isa. 48:10  See, I have refined you, though not as silver;   I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.