Ballin' A Short Story

A Short Story

The day began with an ultimatum.
He was forced to decide between an us or a them.
Completely oblivious as to how its gotten this far.
He grabbed for his gym bag and headed for the car.
With keys in the ignition,
he couldn't believe all the accusations his wife had just mentioned.
Looking up in the rearview he caught the image of his own reflection.
And drifted away back to the day he promised to be her protection.

It was the first day of high school when he first laid eyes on her-- she was short and petite.
Standing a foot shorter than him,
she was covered by his godlike physique.
It was an instant connection as if their souls were destined to meet.
Best friends turned passionate lovers, wasn't long before their hearts ba-boomed at a synchrony beat.

Life as it does began to move along fast.
The decision to choose universities presented them both with different paths.
As star point guard he was becoming the best at his game.
Success, riches and guaranteed offers of fame.. yet at the same time this beautiful being he desired to give his last name.

For awhile it was good, he was able to manage it all.
Starting a new family and maintaining his passion for basketball.
Then gradually over the years the quality of his home time became less.
And each time she brought it to his attention the more it added to his stress.
A large house, cars, and all of the latest toys.
He couldn't understand how doing what he loved didn't bring his family the same joy.

The longer he sat parked in his driveway.
The sunset delivered memories of his favorite days.
Vividly he relived each and every smile.
Like the one his bride wore walking towards him down the aisle.
His, the day of his son's birth when he officially matured into a man.
And on the first day of school when his daughter refused to let loose of his hand.

In the brink of the moment came on the patio light.
Looking down at his jersey, he knew he had to make things right.
A champion with rings but none more important than the one that came with vows.
A decision was made-- an end to his internal whats, whys and hows.

Depending on who's playing to some ball may be life.
But in his game of love and basketball no one will ever take place before his children and his wife. -Infinity