My Husband's Way of "Supporting" His Grandson Costs Time, Money, and My Comfort. I Want Us to Stop.

"Colin is obviously struggling. With what, I've no idea-nor do you, it's clear-but that matters not a whit to me as I answer your question."

"At the start of two of the games, he threw a temper tantrum because he didn't want to wear the protective gear. Coach said he had to wear it or sit on the bench; he chose to sit out the games."

"The one game he actually played in, he was running to first base and fell, scraping his knee. It was a minor injury, but he refused to continue playing."

"I'm not sure what to do. I understand my husband wanting to be supportive of Colin, but we're spending a not-insignificant amount of time and money mostly to watch him sit on a bench. If he were actually playing, it would be much easier to justify the expense, but I feel like this is turning into a "sunk cost" situation."

Colin’s behavior at games includes refusing protective gear, sitting out after tantrums, and stopping play after a minor fall and scraped knee. The parents are concerned about the cost and time of traveling to watch him, especially given motion sickness and high gas prices. The situation is framed as a potential sunk-cost pattern where continued attendance may not change outcomes. Support is still important, but the response should focus on understanding what is driving Colin’s avoidance and addressing it directly. Practical steps can include setting expectations, discussing barriers with the coach and family, and choosing attendance strategies that protect the retirees’ health and finances while still helping Colin participate.

Read at Slate Magazine