Today was the 100th Day Celebration at my oldest son's elementary school. He worked very hard in making an over-sized medallion of 100 coins with his initial in the center. He used a cardboard cake bottom and Elmer's glue to construct this artifact reminiscent of Public Enemy's Flava Flav's 1980's clock necklace.Unfortunately, he did not realize the cold climate would make the coins fall off his assignment (read tomorrow morning's post) and the end result did not turn out as planned. He was still very proud of his work and we as a family celebrated its "coolness."
I was very excited to find out what, if anything, the teacher and other students said about his piece when I picked him up from school. Surprisingly, he was less interested about his piece and went on and on about the elaborate submissions of other students. "One had 100 army men glued to a big piece of cardboard and, and, and...." Finally, after going through each and every other "cool" piece made by other students, he finally said his was awarded second place.
Secretly, I was a bit disappointed, but didnt let it show. We sang and danced and celebrated his victory and honored his investment of time and creativity. I was humbled to realize my son didnt care about placing first (or second), but more about the quality of the pieces and was okay with celebrating others successes.
Recognition and awards do not matter. A seven year old boy reminded me if you are proud of your work, it doesnt matter what others think. "You dont need to blow out someone else's candle, to have yours shine brighter."
What a smart kid. What a great decision.
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