DEAR ABBY: I need some words of wisdom from you. This past weekend I went to see my 7-year-old nephew play baseball. These are all young kids just learning the game.
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There was one young player whose father kept shouting horrible things at him like, "Catch like a MAN!" and, "I don't know why I waste my time coming here!" It was horrible to see that poor kid just wilt under his father's abuse.
Maybe I should have spoken up, but I was scared. Was there anything I could have said? What can be done under those circumstances? I worry there may be a lot more parents out there like this dad. Say something, Abby! We need your help. -- ASHAMED OF THAT DAD IN DECATUR
DEAR ASHAMED OF THAT DAD: Children who are encouraged usually do well at an activity. Those who are bullied, as that child was, do not. What you witnessed was someone trying to relive his own youth through his child. The person to address the belligerent parent should have been the coach of the team.