Pinewood Derby

My oldest son spent an hour a day for the last week attending a class at school where they designed, built, and painted pinewood derby cars. My wife and I were surprised by how much he enjoyed doing this. We were happy about it, but still surprised.

Tonight was the big race. My sons car was in the first heat of 5 cars. He won all of his races and advanced to the final round of 8 cars. He was pretty excited about it, and so was I.

Unfortunately he didn't fare as well in the championship round, losing in his first set of races. Understandably he was a little disappointed. Mostly (I think) because he didn't win a trophy.

You see, he is a member of the "Trophy Generation". One of the kids who has always gotten a participation trophy so no one would ever get their 'feewings' hurt.

And it has been a pet peeve of mine ever since he started in sports. I have spent the last 6 years telling him that when he gets older, there are ACTUALLY GOING TO BE LOSERS in competitive events. I guess he found that out a little tonight.

Giving all of the kids trophies doesn't do jack squat to build self esteem. It only delays the inevitable fact that there are winners and there are losers. More losers than winners. So chances are, you will lose more than you win. I believe it's a good idea to learn that lesson right away, the first time.

Rant off.

For anyone interested, I will be preaching at my church on August 1st. John chapter 14 (my choosing). If you can't be there to hear me, pick up a Bible and read it yourself. Read it closely. Lots of wonderful theology in there.

Also, today I decided I needed some more "stuff" for my outdoor cooking passion. I tire of there never being clean knives or other utensils when I am cooking outside, so I have been building my own set of kitchen gadgets to use outside, keep outside. I've been ordering stuff from Mission Restaurant Supply in San Antonio. They have pretty good prices and quick shipping. Today I ordered some 11 inch stainless serving spoons, some grill tongs, an oven thermometer, and come stainless 'burger flippers'. I'll let y'all know when they come in.