Time Better Spent

Tuesday, the dark, cold clouds receded, allowing a little warmth to a damp city. Dazzled into a stupor by the slender shards of sun, the neighborhoods were content to enjoy the day. The radio was silent. The box was clear.

The streets were populated with bicyclists, joggers, and couples walking dogs.

After making the rounds, I stopped at the Park of the Woods, exited my car, and watched the local Little League team play ball. I mingled with the crowd, passed out stickers to younger siblings, and enjoyed the game.

Off first base, past the bleachers, and by the trees. A boy played soccer with his mom. Garbed in goalie gear, he defended a make shift goal created by cones. He struggled with stopping the ball. His heels were heavy, his balance wrong. He tried his best.

I approached.

Do you want a few tips?

He grinned. His mother stepped back without demur and observed.

In uniform, vest, belt, and boots, I crouched down, showed him how to place his weight, how to drop his knee, how to keep his chest square, bring the ball to his bread basket, and spring to the sides. Then, I started to shoot the ball, slow and low, building speed and spin, width and curve. He listened, adapted, and blocked all balls, but two.

After twenty minutes, I stopped. The boy was breathing hard and sweating heavily, and I needed to check the box and return to my responsibilities.

And though I made no arrests, issued no citations, and cleared no calls, I can't think of time better spent on a quiet day.

Comments

[ToeKnee]

Awesome! You rock!

[Roger]

Bravo!! This ties nicely into one of my interview questions. "How would you define community policing." Great job RD!.

Roger

[Jerry Ann]

Sounds like a great afternoon for both of you. :)

[Peppypilotgirl]

Definitely one of the best ways to spend some time. Thanks for making a difference in that kid's life. Chances are he's always going to remember the day the cop stopped to give him some pointers.