Tuesday, January 31, 2023

Participate Vs Compete

 Everyone is not a winner.  Not everyone is a star.  Many are supporting players.  A team consists of people who have different talents working together for a goal.  


The whole idea of getting participation trophies is to say all are winners.  It actually subverts achievement.


Now, to try, at least one thing, may prove it isn't for one.  Try something else.  


Some of us prefer to shun the limelight or be a power behind the throne.  Not like those who would be our masters, rather we might be better suited to play another part.  


I certainly cannot do some things.  I can do others.


In Jr High, I wanted to participate in our phys ed field day.  I knew I couldn't win, but I had to try.


Our teacher was a great guy and said sure.


I did. I wasn't even considered a competitor except for myself.  


Noone chided me, nor bullied me.  I wanted to see how it felt.  Oh and noone laughed.


There was no medal nor trophy.  What was special was participation.  


Competition is a choice.  There are more serious applications.  We find them in current events.


E Pluribus Unum.  From many-one.    The sum of parts.


In a Republic, we all participate.  We each have a part to play.  Pick any analogy even metaphor you like.  Machines, suits, teams, even salad dressing as opposed to mayonnaise, what have you.


In a Republic we are all winners.  Our trophy is Liberty.  


Our competition is tyranny


Our scars and bruises are our participation.

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