Life Changes

On Friday night the Rangers let my dad know that his services were no longer needed. “Dismissed” is how the Dallas paper worded it. In the real working world, when someone is fired, it is very hush hush. People speculate why or how. Rumors spread that they were escorted from the building or told to pack their stuff and leave in the next hour. I have worked in a corporate setting, seen it happen. But you never read about it in the paper the next day. In the professional sports world, everyone gets to know every detail b/c of ESPN, the internet and newspapers. We have lived our lives watching my dad’s career play out in public- wins and losses, hirings and firings; this isn’t the first time he has been “dismissed.” But this time is different.

You see the previous times were more in the middle of his career. He and my mom were raising three kids, worried about college, retirement and the elusive World Series ring. He had already discussed this being his last season in uniform. We have all hoped for that. Not that it hasn’t been a wonderful ride. We have lived in 5 states and Puerto Rico, seen games in 20 or so stadiums across the country and Canada. Our travels have been extensive and we have been afforded many opportunities because of my father’s career.

But this time, all three of us are college grads and Ryan is on to law school in a few weeks. My parents responsibilities for us are dwindling and now they can focus on themselves and their grandkids. My Dad can join us at Katie Kohl’s wedding in two weeks- the first time, besides our own weddings, that our whole family will attend a wedding together. He can play golf with Ryan in his remaining few weeks of study-less days. He can take Maeve to Mr. Gatti’s and the rides at the mall. He can enjoy dinners with Mom and talk across the driveway with Jimmy.

I can only imagine how my dad is feeling after spending 30+ years in professional baseball. My career only lasted 10 years but when I left in May, it was a hard transition. I didn’t realize it but I had been defined by what I did. But now in Raleigh, people only know me as “Jack’s mom.” I stay at home. They don’t know that I traveled the continent building playgrounds and educating community leaders. I have struggled with this. I want to shout out “I am more than a mom. I have a great education and exceptional skills.” But you know what. That doesn’t matter in the end. In the end all that we will leave here are our children.

So Dad, I think I can speak for Shannon and Ryan, when I say, that while we are so proud of you and your career, and while we will tell the stories to our children and theirs, and while you may or may not go back to the field come February, we are glad you are home now. We know your career will be documented and you will be known for the coach that you are and all the famous players you helped. But most importantly, we are proud of the amazing man, husband, father and grandfather you are and the life you and Mom have given our family. Welcome home! You are going to love East Tennessee in September!