Wandering in a sporting goods store, I heard the typical child parent banter. I want, I need, I can’t live without.

As I rounded a corner, I can upon a dad with his daughter. She was in tears because he refused to purchase her a pair of Nike LeBron Basketball Shoes. The Price-$139.99.

As they walked toward the checkout counter, I heard him exclaim, “When you practice, develop the skills, and get on a competitive team, I will then consider the purchase. Until then, this $40 pair will be just fine.”   By the time they walked out of the store, her sobs had softened.  It appeared this was a ritual she expected.  Her posture was tall as she reached out to grab his hand.   The expectations were clear, the relationship had strengthened.  The child may excel at basketball, or she may not.  The lesson was way more important than any score, any game…