Victory and Defeat

Last night, our eight-year-old scored the winning goal in overtime of her soccer game.  It was a sweet moment for her and the team, as they've won only one other game this season.

While God gives us life, we will walk with our children through their victories and defeats.  Both are full of teachable moments.  In victory, we help them be gracious, humble, and thankful.  Through defeat, they learn to persevere, accept loss, yet hold their head up high.  This is true in any competitive venture, from athletics to academics to fine arts.

As parents, we celebrate or console, offer congratulations or comfort.  Either way, our children should be able to rest in the fact that they are loved unconditionally.  Whether or not they score a goal in the game, get an "A" on the test, or win a first place trophy, I will always be proud to be my daughters' mother.