Kindness and cricket balls

Luke is struggling with his ‘good turns’ punishment. The dangled carrot that his write up will be published on my blog has failed to elicit sustained enthusiasm. He has however been a far friendlier and helpful child over the last 2 weeks, which we hope had something to do with the way we handled this situation. Although it may have had something to do with a wayward cricket ball.


Luke got hit in the head with a hard cricket ball twice last week. The first time was during practise when he apparently saved the ball from bouncing on the floor by trying to catch it in his mouth. That left him with a split lip and a lopsided smile.

The second time was a little more dramatic. It was late on a Friday afternoon, the air pregnant with anticipation. The opposing team batsman hit a cracker of a shot which rocketed to a kid on the boundary. The kid had his knee down and waited textbook style to stop the ball. About a meter from him, the ball hit a tuft of grass and took off into the air. The kid stopped it with his forehead, getting knocked onto his back for his trouble.

One of the parents leapt onto the field with an almighty cry, covering the next 80 meters in no time at all. He was obviously a little concerned for his son, as it had been a nasty crack. He picked up the kid, whose hat fell off revealing, none other than our dear son Luke. He was dazed and confused but determined to head on out after a short break. His fielding was atrocious, his bowling sublime, and his batting adding nothing to the tally. Not a good day out on the field, but then again, I am not sure that he was playing with only the one ball! Although, it should be added that Luke’s quick thinking team mates ran out the offending batsman whilst he was trying to understand all of the fuss.

Luke has however been the most attentive and caring child for the last couple of days. Fights with his brother have reduced to almost none, and he has even been spotted lovingly hugging the dear chap! Our household has been basking in the glow of all round pleasantness.

We are not sure if the two things are related but are certainly going to encourage plenty more cricket! Although helmet wearing at all times will be encouraged!