Mason participated in his final wrestling tournament of the year yesterday. I think now that it is all said and done he had a good experience.
To back up a little, last week we were at the Blackfoot tournament. It was a rough day for the little fella. He wrestled hard, but didn’t win any of his matches. They had him wrestling kids in the same weight class as him, but they had been in wrestling for three and four years. Keep in mind, this is Mason’s first. The last two matches really tested Mason’s emotional capacity. He was in pain – physically and emotionally. When the match was over and the other wrestler got to raise his hand in victory, it was hard. He ran off of the mat crying and had a little melt down in the hall claiming he would never wrestle again. I couldn’t talk him into shaking his opponent’s hand like a good sport. I looked around and saw other boys experiencing the same thing – I wondered to myself, “Is this all worth it?” As the day progressed, Mason was able to watch the older boys. He saw that they held it together if they lost – even if they were disappointed. We talked a lot that night about sportsmanship, not giving up, and just doing your best! Stephen and I both reassured him that he didn’t need to worry about winning, but to always do his best.
So now we come to yesterday…a day much like the Blackfoot experience minus the drama! I was so proud of Mason – he tried so hard and never gave up, though every match was difficult. When it was over he shook the opponent’s hand and walked off of the mat in complete control. He learned that sometimes you win and sometimes you lose, never give up, and always do your best. When we got home, he even asked if I noticed his behavior. I told him, “Yes I did, and I am very proud of you.” Some lessons in life can only be taught through experience.
Comments:
Aunt Steph said…
Good job Mason, I have only one once in my life, when I was 32 Riley and I beat Trevin and Matt at Kubb. I wish I could be more in control like you. Sometimes I feel like I never want to try for fear I might just loose again. I am glad you did your best, will you teach mat the rules, he wrestles like a Luchador. See you soon.
Sunday, November 18, 2007 10:52:10 PM
Aunt Anne said…
Good Job! There have been lots of times in my life when I tried and tried and tried and still lost. But also I have had times where I have won. I think it is important to lose, so when you win it is even BETTER! Also, the times I didn’t win, I still had a good time. Keep up the determination and it will all pay off!
Monday, November 19, 2007 1:58:28 PM