The Ethiopian Prince

Abate had a soccer game on Tuesday night in Brownwood, it was the district opener. I wasn’t able to go as Brownwood is about an hour and forty-five minute drive from Gatesville. I was really anxious though to see how they did as Abate is friends with several of the players on their squad (the run XC). Brownwood teams always seem to excel at most all of the UIL sports they offer. So by 9:30 I knew the game should have ended and the team should be back on the bus I sent him a text asking how the game went. I quickly had a reply:

                                We were losing 1-0 at the half

                                And came back and won 3-1!!!

I made the plays all around the field!!!

That’s how we scored the two goals

because of me!! Even though I didn’t

get the assist and goals but they

scored because of me!

                               

Whoa here kid, we all know you are talented but it seems a bit of humility would be a nice addition to your arsenal of qualities.  

We have always jokingly referred to Abate as “Prince Abate” because of his high opinions of himself. His self confidence is high and he is not modest in the least when it comes to his high regard of his athletic prowess.  He also thinks women are here to do his bidding.

I’m thinking now I may be partially to blame for this as I am always complimenting and giving positive reinforcement to him and Fantu so that they will have high self-esteem.  Have I gone too far? Abate has always had this attitude to some extent. He has always been a “teacher’s pet” at school and very popular with his peers.  I’ve also noticed that this trait is quite common among many of the Ethiopian adoptees. I’m just not sure how to handle this. I’m thinking that he really needs to get involved of some kind of charitable cause, maybe working with elderly or the disadvantaged. I think by the time summer rolls around I will insist on it unless he gets a summer job. I still think that he should do some volunteer work no matter.  Now just how do I present this to him? I’ve a bit of time to work on it. Ideas anyone?