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Weeds & Wildflowers May Prompt / Play
Playful Memories
Remembering Ben
It was almost eight years ago that Ben and Grandson kicked a ball around the parking lot. Grandson’s interest in soccer blossomed that year. He knew little about the game, and Ben knew everything about it. Grandson had the perfect teacher.
They spent more than a few hours with a soccer ball in the parking lot and at a local park. Ben taught Grandson how to handle and control the ball. But greater than the lessons were the memories they created of a grandfather sharing one of his talents with his grandson.
Grandson played on a community team that year and the next. The other players were more experienced; he spent a lot of time on the bench. But after each game, Ben went over the game with Grandson, discussing the good plays and the bad. At home, they watched professional games with the same sort of discussions.
Grandson moved north in 2018. He played on school and community teams. He became better. He was the team captain. He became the best because Ben took the time to impart his wisdom of the game.
Now, only Grandson and I have those memories.
© 2025
