Just Like My Dad 2

By Elizabeth M Johnson and Tyrell Plair

As the Braves prepare for the championship game, they are faced with some shocking news when it comes down to the last game of the season. The team struggles to find out who will play what position after the loss of one of their teammates. However, soon enough, the Braves learn it's not about winning but com

• Language: English
• Publisher: PlaTy Multimedia & Publishing
• Release date: Feb 1, 2024
• ISBN: 9781957086125

Book preview

W ow Mom! Did you see it? Now, that was an unbelievable game! We had to rally in the last inning to win. It was awesome! Miriam boasted as she and her mom made their way to the car.

Of course, I saw it. It was a well played game. I’m extremely proud of your teammates, Helen stated as she unlocked the trunk of the car. You can place your gloves and cleats in the truck, Miriam. And, since I didn’t see you play any today, I’m guessing you won’t be needing your uniform washed, will you? Helen questioned.

Miriam, sensing her mother's sarcasm, turned around and slung her baseball items in the trunk, then slammed it shut. She was immediately scolded about her performance today.

"What did I tell you about slamming my doors, young lady?’’ Helen asked, expecting an answer.

Don’t slam your doors until you start paying bills, she imitated her mother’s voice. But I slammed the trunk shut, not the door.

Don’t be smart. Just a few moments ago, you were praising your team's win, so why do you suddenly have an attitude? Is it because I pointed out that you didn’t play today? Helen questioned, before taking her place in the driver's seat. She waited until Miriam got in the passenger seat before continuing. What’s wrong Miriam, answer me.

I don’t have an attitude or issue, Mom…at least not towards anyone. I’m just a little disappointed, that’s all.

Disappointed? Why? Go on, tell me, I’m listening.

Ok, well, it’s like this Mom. Coach Carl says that when we have something on our mind or something that’s bothering us, that we should talk about it. He also says that we should express ourselves in a calm and respectful manner.

Your coach is right. We have nowhere to be, so tell me what's on your mind, Miriam, Helen stated as she faced her daughter.

Miriam stared out the window as other players passed by with their parents and friends to their respective vehicles. She let out a deep sigh before speaking.

Mom, the reason that I didn’t get to play today was because I was late.

Her mom interrupted her, But you were here before the game started, she declared.

True, but not before Coach had to turn in the lineup. It was Coach Carl and Coach Mike’s decision, and I agreed with it. Truth be told Mom, I haven’t been as committed as I should be, or even responsible for that matter.

How so? Helen wanted her to go in detail.

I’ve been late for several practices, and each time I’ve made excuses, Miriam confessed, then lowered her head.

It’s not entirely your fault Lefty, it’s not like you can drive yourself, Helen stated honestly, then patted her daughter on the leg.

I’m not a little girl anymore, Mom. It’s time that I stop making excuses for my behavior. It’s time that I honor my commitments, and it is long overdue that I stop being so forgiving of Dad, when he doesn’t do so as he’s promised.

Wait, what does your dad have to do with this? I understand that you’re upset Miriam, but your dad tries… He…

This time it was Miriam interrupting. See Mom, now you’re the one making excuses for Dad. I’ve heard the conversations that you both have had. It’s frustrating to you as well, that he’s always gone, but even more so to me.

I know that it is tough sometimes, Helen confessed

What you don’t know Mom, is that at one point in time I isolated myself from you. But that was only because Dad interacted with me more, and you just did things for me. There’s a difference. Since I’ve been on the baseball team, I’ve learned a lot about myself. It’s like even though you both are my parents and responsible for me, I have an obligation to be responsible for myself and my actions, if that makes any sense.

Helen’s heart warmed at the wisdom that she heard coming out of her daughter’s mouth. She smiled proudly. You are growing up right before my eyes, Miriam.

I am? I mean, it is what I’m supposed to do right? Miriam questioned, not fully understanding.

Oh, that’s just an old saying that adults use, but you are right. I really like the Miriam that I’ve been seeing lately. I must agree, baseball has brought on a much-needed change in your life. I’m glad that we had this talk. Now how about we get out of here and grab some pizza on our way home?

That sounds like a great idea, Mom, Miriam replied as she glanced out of her window once again. This time, she noticed her teammate, Ricky, sitting on the bleachers and facing the parking lot alone, swinging his legs back and forth. Give me a few minutes Mom. I see one of my teammates sitting on the bleachers, and I’m going to make sure he’s alright before we leave, Miriam stated before exiting the car.

Okay, but don’t be long, Helen told her.

Okay, I won't.

Miriam hopped out of the car and jogged over to where Ricky sat. He spotted her just as she approached and jumped down off the bleachers.

Hey, what’s up Miriam. I thought you were gone. What are you still doing here?

My mom and I were sitting in the car having a conversation. Why are you still here? Everybody has pretty much cleared out, she questioned, while scanning the baseball complex.

I was waiting for my cousin to come pick me up. I’ve called him twice, but he hasn’t answered.

Well… Miriam shrugged her shoulders then looked around once again Where is he?

I’m not sure, he’s usually here by now. I was just about to start walking home. It’s not that far. Maybe twenty minutes or so, Ricky replied.

"Twenty minutes? No way! Grab your things, and I’ll ask my