Abby did a great job in the final Spelling Bee today. Kids came from all over--Yosemite, San Jose, Roseville... She took it hard when she was eliminated. In an almost too-sad twist, the word she misspelled was "hurt," which she spelled with an e. It did hurt to see her cry and to know how disappointed she felt. She wanted a trophy and the approbation of her teacher, her friends, and her parents for WINNING, not just for participating. That's understandable, but it is also a great opportunity for all of us to show her how completely her worth is NOT in her performance. She is a lovely person, a tenderhearted and generous girl, and a bright kid too. It may be the better outcome in the long run for her personal development, but it still "hurts." I was so thankful that her teacher, Mrs. P, gathered her in her arms when Abby arrived at school. Mrs. P put Abby's certificate up on the board, told her that the whole class would get popsicles to celebrate Abby's achievement, and that Abby could share about the experience during circle time. This cheered her up. When we pick her up from school, we will take her to dinner--Abby's choice (which will almost certainly be Thai food)--and celebrate her. Competition is hard. This is the first time I've experienced it from the parental side of things, and it's harder than I thought to watch your kiddo "perform." I was so nervous for her, but I had to just keep giving thumbs up and smiles. It's good Matthew was there to hold her while the remaining kids duked it out on some hard words (like ditch and monkey); he has a way of calmly lending strength and comfort in times of disappointment.
Good job, Abby. You're our champion.
1 comment:
Abby could not ask for wiser, more loving parents either. Well done to you two also for helping your kiddo through a big day.
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