Going for Gold

All three of my kids are participating on school Track Teams this spring, at the middle school and the high school. And all three of my kids throw shot put. Or "put the shot," as my mother likes to say.

They're good. Not always the best, but good. My eldest hasn't come in first all season because there's a senior on his team who's really-really good. But my boy's only a sophomore. He's got time.

My middle child looks good competing, and loves being part of the team. He shows a lot of heart to go out there every day and try, always believing in his chances.

My daughter is only in sixth grade, and she's placed at every meet she's competed at this spring. Usually coming in second or third, but she also keeps trying for that gold. When she's in eighth grade, she'll be winning. And by high school, look out.

What's my point?

It's not always about winning. It's about the journey - going for the gold doesn't always have to mean you win. The important part is to keep trying. To keep believing in yourself and your chances. To never give in to that little voice that says, "Why bother? I'm not going to win/place/get published anyway."

If you don't try, you'll never win.

If you don't write, you'll never be published.