8 things that matter at the 4-H fair
As we look toward a summer filled with 4-H shows, we encourage you to remember this:
It's never about winning; it's about being part of something bigger than yourself.
It's never about being perfect; it's about being your personal best.
It's never about beating someone else; it's about beating your last effort.
It's never about losing; it's about learning what you can to keep do better the next time.
It's never quitting, never giving in or giving up, never selling out or selling yourself short.
It's learning to lose gracefully and win graciously in the ring or in life.
It's learning that sometimes the break goes your way and sometimes it doesn't, and there's nothing you can do about it but play the game you are there to play.
It's about respecting your competitor and respecting the rules of the game and knowing the minute you stop either one, you've lost.
I wish I could promise you that the fair is going to work out the way you want.
I wish I could tell you that you'll have the success you worked for. I wish I could tell you that you'll be recognized for your hard work, your kindness, your dedication, your grit. I wish I could tell you that others who didn't work as hard won't stand ahead of you in the ring, won't get the bigger trophy or the prettier ribbon.
Now, go back and read that again, except this time, instead of "the fair," substitute "your life."
You see, the 4-H fair isn't just about your project. It's about learning to deal what life throws at you, with failure and success and everything in between.
It's about doing your best and allowing that to be the reward you seek. It's about learning that you can only control your actions, your decisions, and your happiness.
It's your first lesson in learning to let the things out of your control simply be. It's practice for what comes next in career, school, and life.