Thought about this while driving to work and after dropping my kids off at before-school care (and after contemplating the reactions I sometimes get while hugging/kissing my kids goodbye). I guess that this is an open letter to those with my same last name that are still in the single digits.
I am your backstop.
Sorry that it sometimes embarrasses you when I give you a hug in front of your friends. Sorry that it makes you feel a little uneasy. Sorry that you don't realize that your friend longs for, wishes for (but can never tell you) that she wishes that her ride would give her a kiss, hug, or even a pat-pat, non-embrace hug. One day you'll understand that I am your backstop.
Know that I don't enjoy getting upset, being tired, or (especially) folding laundry. Know that teaching hard lessons that make you cry are no fun for me either. Know that the thoughts that I carry at my bedtime regarding "am I doing OK by the kids" is a core event of my day. Know that I am your backstop.
Feel the admiration that I have for you . . . for each of you. Feel the pride I feel from the first note on your clarinet, the diving goalie save, the stepping up for your sister, and the concern you carry for the dog. Feel me standing behind you ready to catch the passed ball - I am your backstop.
Consider the things that we have. Consider that the roof doesn't leak. Consider that the lights stay on. Consider that there is always food in the cabinet and (usually) milk in the fridge. Consider that if you really need it (or sometimes only really want it) odds are pretty good that you'll get it.
Consider that our sometimes not-typically-defined-family is our base - our safe place. Feel that our friends are wide and deep. Know that our house is our home.
Consider, Feel, and Know that I am your backstop. I will be the one that unobtrusively watches over your shoulder, stops your misses, and allows you to climb up to get a better view. I will protect you from the violent foul tips and broken bats. I will be there for a rest or for support.
You are the Player.
I am Your Backstop.