I was checking out my Facebook page this morning when I noticed a video a few friends had linked to. I was still waking up and had a fresh cup of coffee, so I thought, “What the heck, on with the entertainment.” 
I’m so happy I clicked. The skill, work ethic, discipline and team playing abilities these young ladies have are nothing short of pure inspiration. Who in the world would have thought that so much could be done with a few jump ropes?
As parents, sometimes we get caught up in how hard it is to juggle all of the running, waiting and expense that comes with active, involved kids, that we forget what it’s doing for our children.
This video is the perfect example of why supporting our children in whatever they choose to do, is so important. Whether your child is involved in music, sports, dance, art or academic teams and clubs, they’re learning necessary skills to succeed as adults. You couldn’t convince me that the young ladies on this jump-roping dance team are lazy or struggle with self-confidence.
Encourage your children to find their passion and go after it, even if it’s not something you particularly understand or would do yourself. I know my parents wouldn’t have dressed up as medieval court jesters and juggled for a Madrigal troupe, but they made sure I was at every practice and when it came time for my performances, they were there. And they were proud. Just as they were at my track meets, show choir performances, scholastic competitions and band and choir concerts.
I learned a lot about determination, and what it takes to get the job done throughout my crazy high school years. I learned that the world was bigger than me and if I was going to make it, I had to perform well in everything I did, for my family, my teams and me.
I wasn’t out partying or starting trouble, I was busy doing constructive, wickedly fun things with great groups of people. And I can honestly look back and know that not only was I learning important life skills, but I was having a great time doing it.
When you’re tired of sitting in your SUV waiting for the practice that seems to consistently run half an hour later than it’s scheduled, think about the opportunity you’re affording your child. It WILL pay off long after the curtain closes.
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