As a working mom, I've been blessed to have others who have truly stepped in and helped when I needed it.
Tonight, though, my village broke.
My 6 year old was left by his coaches after a practice ended early. Nevermind that the parents didn't know the practice was ending before its usual time. Nevermind that it was getting dark. Nevermind that the child was SIX.
He was left, playing on the playground. Whether it was by accident or not, it's inexcusable.
There are few worse feelings in life than arriving at the practice - where you had left minutes before to get your other child - and seeing no coaches. No adults. And not - at least at first - your child.
I'm grateful to the guardian angels who looked over my child, who said he "hid in a tunnel" in the playground equipment when he saw a stranger walking and was scared. I am grateful to the parent who realized my son was alone and waited until I arrived - before the usual practice ending time.
I'm grateful to the village when it works. I'm frightened for the days it doesn't.
Yikes! How scary! The coaches were so irresponsible. What were they thinking? So glad that your son is okay.
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness! That is completely unacceptable! Was this a school event? I would absolutely be calling up whoever was responsible to let them know what happened. NOT okay!
ReplyDeleteYes - I texted the coach's wife (the only # I had) as soon as I found my son and knew he was safe. I got a half-hearted response from her, and never did hear from the coach himself. Needless to say, my son's been pulled from the team.
ReplyDeleteThe worst part is, the coach's son is a good friend of my son's, yet I don't know if I'll ever feel comfortable having my child around his family after that.
I am working on crafting a note from the organization.