Treehouse: Letter He Had to Write (But Didn't)
Dear Coach,
First off, I want to thank you for calling me out to the field today. I know it was our day off and you could've been doing literally anything else, but you took the time to talk to me about the issues you have with my girlfriend.
That means a lot, Coach. It really does.
I'm grateful for this team—you have no idea how much. You guys are like my family, and I know you're looking out for me. I get it. I'm still young. I just turned 18 last month, and I know I don't have all the answers. I know you think certain things aren't as serious as they seem when you're my age, but Coach... the truth is, some things are way more serious than anyone realizes.
It's not just about her. I mean, yeah, I love her—I've been with her for over a year now—but it's more than that. It's her little brother. He's three years old, and I don't know how to explain this without sounding crazy, but I'm like... I'm more than a mentor to him. He looks up to me. When I come over, his whole face lights up. He runs to the door yelling my name. We play football in the backyard. I read him stories. I'm teaching him how to tie his shoes.
And if I break up with her...
I lose him too.
I'm a Christian, Coach. You know that. And the thought of walking away from that little boy—of him wondering where I went, why I don't come around anymore—it would break my heart. It would actually break my heart. He didn't ask to be part of this. He's just a kid who thinks I'm gonna be around forever.
So yeah, I hear what you're saying. I hear the concerns. But I can't just walk away. Not from her. Not from him. I know I'm young, but this is real to me. This matters.
Thank you for caring enough to pull me aside. I won't let you down on the field. I promise.