Second Place Ain't So Bad

Posted by Scott Williams
2 Comments
April 20, 2009
Kid Lessons | Life Application

2nd-placeThis past Sunday boys had their first track meet of the season.  I always enjoy going to their track meets because both of my boys can really run and my 9yo. is really fast.  If you have been reading BigIsTheSmall for awhile, then you have probably heard me braggin’ on his Usain Bolt track skillz ( “skillz”to be said like Napoleon Dynamite).

It was a crazy weather day for a track meet as it was cloudy, cold and windy.  I was running around with my hoodie on, as my wife and I were tag teaming our sons to and from their events; some of which were almost simultaneous.  They both earned second place in their events, only missing first place by a hair.

This competitively proud father, for maybe the first time was actually excited with both of my sons second place finish.  Below are three reasons my sons taught me to embrace the fact that Second Place Ain’t So Bad:

  1. They listened to the advice of their coach and their parents.
  2. They ran hard, competed and finished strong.
  3. They’re committed to getting better, with plans on earning 1st. place next time.

I am a competitive kinda guy who likes to win.  Through my life experience and through the lessons my boys are teaching me I am embracing the fact that it doesn’t matter if you come in Second as long as you: listen, compete and are committed to getting better. 

Remember: Second Place Ain’t So Bad… as long as you are keeping first place in sight and in reach.

Share your thoughts on Second Place!  What lessons are you learning from your children and their lives?

  • CRGlen

    Scott I too am extremely competitive. But, I have learned from my wife that it really ain’t all that. Here is my reason; what if your boys (I have 1 – 22 yr old) had absolutley no skillz. Thus no chance of ever medalling. Would you have them stop competing, if the loved it anyway. Or as you said just be a proud that they listened, tried and gave it there best with the desire to do and be their best again when given the opportunity.
    As a competitive FREAK I often forget that most people don’t have the ability to medal, but if they didn’t try or compete it wouldn’t be much of a competition.
    So, I hope my daughter (6 yr old) grows up to be somewhere in between my wife and I. Because I too am a proud Daddy and I pray that i can be just as proud if she finished in last place as I would be if she finished first.
    Just my thoughts not a shame on you or any of us overly competitive people… :)

  • http://basementseven.com Heady

    I like this: Remember: Second Place Ain’t So Bad… as long as you are keeping first place in sight and in reach.

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