Life's Lessons Aren't Always Easy

Tonight was the Pinewood Derby.  Daniel and Nathan have both spent the past week getting their cars ready.  Daniel was excited to race.  Nathan, having never done a derby before, wasn't sure if he was excited.  Rather than just having one winner for first, second, and third places, our troop opted to have three winners in each of three colors: blue, red, and white.  Essentially, they would have nine winners instead of only three.  When the boys got home after everything was over, Nathan informed me that he had tied for first place in the white category (that translates to 7th place).  He had not expected to win anything and was pleasantly surprised.  He was very gracious about it, not boastful or bragging.  I was pretty darn proud of how he handled a bit of success.

Daniel was disappointed that he didn't do better.  He was presented with a certificate for the most artistic car, but he was a bit upset.  For a kid who has been largely successful in his endeavors thus far, it was a bit tough not only not doing as well as he had hoped, but to have his little brother do better than he did.  Daniel is very used to doing things the other boys don't get to do and getting things they don't get.  It is just part and parcel of being the oldest.  But as the other boys get older, I'm afraid he's going to have to deal with not always being first in line for things.  And like everyone, he will learn that we don't always get to win.  And as his mother, I have to say that I think it is good for him to experience all the ups and downs that life has to offer.