I was telling my father-in-law yesterday about how I “played” volleyball my senior year of high school. They let me practice with them and wear the uniform at games. I sat on the bench and cheered everybody on. I think I still have the shirt (I was #1). I was not much of a volleyball player but I was a happy, smiley little sprout so I was great for team morale.
Today I was complaining to a co-worker about having to work in the suite down the hall while everyone else has already moved to the new space. I told him I didn’t feel like part of the team. He reassured me that I was part of the team, but that I was just one of the bench players. Nice 
Such is my life - on some level I have always felt like the bench player. Everybody loves me, I’m always welcome, but I am really just watching from the sidelines because I don’t quite fit in to the game. I don’t know where this comes from and it’s probably not all that true (if it is, don’t tell me) but I’m going to blame it on being the middle child. Yup, it all goes back to that. I’m sure of it.
Good thing is your not a bench player parent. You are actively involved in Luke’s life. See your not JUST a bench player. Your part of the team! YEAH!
Wow, I feel the same way. It must be the middle child thing.
I was a first child and I have always felt like I am in a “watcher” from the sidelines.