More than a Trophy

Over the weekend, my family traveled to Indiana for the Future Problem Solving (FPS) International Competition.

Tehila was competing in the Creative Writing Junior Division and the Global Issues Problem Solving (GIPS) Junior Division after earning first place in both categories at the state level.

Making it to Internationals was certainly a big deal for us. 

Let me explain. 

Tehila was introduced to FPS back in 4th grade while we lived in Iowa, and she fell in love with the program. Over the last three years, she has qualified for Internationals each year, and every competition has taught her something new about herself and her abilities. 

This year, however, looked a little different. 

After our move from Iowa to New York, participation seemed uncertain. Her school schedule was much busier, and we weren't sure whether there was a New York team she could join. Thankfully, we reached out to our Iowa coach - who is an absolute gem - and she connected us with the NY coordinator. And before long, we not only got on board but also secured a scholarship, making the competition a reality for us. 

Then came the unexpected surprise. 

Not only was Tehila participating in FPSI, on a partial scholarship, but she was also selected to serve as New York's flag bearer. We were absolutely thrilled! 

Seeing her proudly dressed in the costume, representing New York, reminded me of something important: sometimes, you have to believe in yourself before you can fully see what is possible. Many opportunities are already within reach - we simply need some courage to pursue them. 

The road to Internationals was not without challenges. 

After the regional competition, Tehila felt overwhelmed. To be fair, she had a lot on her plate. Between school responsibilities, clubs, and preparing for the competition, it would have been easy to step back and just chill. 

But she didn't.

She kept showing up.

It was not an easy journey, but with encouragement, prayers, determination, and a willingness to push through, she made it!

When the state competition results arrived, and the trophies were mailed to us, we screamed for joy and celebrated. It felt like an answer to prayer, a reminder that hard work often produces results long before we see them.

As parents and guardians, one of the greatest joys is watching your child discover their own strength. On this journey, I saw Tehila learn lessons about discipline, resilience, determination, and faith.  

During the competition, she worried that she hadn't done her best, but I shushed her. 

Let me not lie, the Nigerian mother in me was screaming, "better bring that cup home", but I knew saying that wouldn't help the situation. Why put pressure when all she needed was a reassurance? 

I don't want her to grow up believing that every competition is only about the cup. I am all for winning, but I want her to enjoy the process too. What is the point of sacrificing your peace just to win? 

We don't do that here. 

So, I pulled her tight into a warm hug and told her to focus on putting in her best and letting go of any other concerns at the moment. 

In the process, she made beautiful memories with her friends, learned more about forestry, improved her presentation skills, learned team collaboration, and gained experience that will stay with her for life. 

In the end, we all won!

Not because of the trophies or lack of trophies at the international competition, but because of the growth. 

Cheers to learning, persevering, and pushing through even when the road is difficult. Sometimes, the greatest victories are not the awards or commendations we receive, but the people we become along the way. 

I am proud of you, Tehila. Not because of the trophies you won, or the competitions you participated in, but because of the person you are becoming.

For that, I raise a glass to you.