Drum Corp Mom
Marybet Hudson
Dedicated to my two favorite drum corp kids.
I am a Drum Corp Mom
A quick hug and kiss goodbye, and you are off again, never staying home for more than a day or two.
I search endlessly for pictures on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, just to see your face for a moment, to know you are happy, or worry that you are not.
I wake up in the middle of the night, just to check scores from competitions on the other side of the country.
I am a Drum Corp Mom
When people ask about you, I have to start with, “Do you know about Drum Corp?”
If they know drum corp, they understand.
If they don’t, they’ll never understand.
But I don’t think anyone really understands, except for other Drum Corp moms.
I am a Drum Corp Mom.
I am happy if I get a quick hug in the lot as you warm up.
I sit in the stands wearing your show shirt — when what I really want to wear is a giant poster that says, “That’s my kid down there!”
I want everyone to see my love and pride for all that you are doing.
I sit in the stands to watch you practice, smiling at your talent and dedication.
Then you walk off the field, only to do it all again tomorrow, in a different city, in a different state.
I am a Drum Corp Mom.
I am continually amazed that 150 people can work together to make something so amazing.
As the brass belts out the enormous sounds
As the rifles fly to impossible heights, just to drop perfectly into waiting hands
As the drummers hit the beats and the mallets fly so fast I can’t see them
I cry tears of joy and pride at all you have done.
Then I watch the young fans come to you, asking for selfies and autographs.
You are kind and generous with these young strangers, always taking time to talk with them and encourage them.
I am a Drum Corp Mom
I know about the hours spent alone, practicing over and over
Hours you could have spent with friends,
or watching TV
or just sleeping.
It is these hours spent alone that make you.
I know that this is your bliss.
I am so proud of you.
I will always be a Drum Corp Mom.
Just Jump In 