Caden wins a trophy

Today was an interesting day in the Kerstiens' household. We learned a lesson about being a gracious winner and loser. Logan and Caden are going to soccer camp at the Matthews Rec center. They put them on the same team, the Tiny Titans.

Caden did exceptionally well today and won an All-Star trophy. They must have called his name and he went in front of the entire class to receive it. He was thrilled and even more excited to pick a treat from the Treasure Chest. His treat was Skittles, one of his favorites.

On the flip side, Logan did not receive a trophy today and was crushed. He was crying when I picked them up. He said he tried his best. The coach came up and explained that they only had 2 trophies per team and Caden was the best. Logan had great behavior and has 3 more opportunities to earn a trophy.

Learning to be a gracious winner or loser is hard for anyone. Especially when you are 3 and 4 years old. How do we teach Logan to be proud of Caden and happy for him? How do we teach him that his best is what we expect and what God wants most from him? How do we teach him to live in light of eternity?

In addition, how does Caden learn that a trophy is nice, but doing his best is what is most important. Earthly treasures will not get us to heaven, nor will doing good deeds. His acceptance of Christ as his Savior is the only way.

Finally, how do we as parents encourage both boys. Giving praise to both of them for a wonderful day. We don't want either of them to feel disappointed, but life is full of hardships. They are only beginning to see the world's realities and limitations of their own abilities. I pray that God will give us the grace and wisdom to teach them to search for and fulfill His perfect plan for their life, whatever that may be.