"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Staying on Top

Jalen at his match 3/18/08
President Hinckley dedicated his book WAY TO BE!, "to a generation of young people who will rise to meet the exciting opportunities of a new and challenging day".

I couldn't read that statement without thinking of my 13 year old son Jalen. As I look down the list of "Be's", he's got them all. And the attribute that especially stands out is BE POSITIVE.

This year Jalen decided to give wrestling a try. My first instinct was to talk him out of it. Jay is my mellow, not real aggressive child. I wanted to protect him from being hurt physically as well as emotionally. Isn't that what mommies do? But, I held my tongue and my breath and waited to see what would happen.

As the season was ready to begin Jalen reported that there were 4 boys in his weight division. They had all challenged each other and Jalen came out in the varsity spot. I was delighted and so proud of his effort. Jalen wasn't even surprised. In fact, he expected it. What an example!

This season has been tough. He is still learning the in's and out's of the sport. But he gives it his all and fights to stay on top. Wrestling is like life. It is easy to let yourself get down and takes a whole lot of effort to stay on top of things.

"In my ninety-plus years, I have learned a secret. I have learned that when good men and good women face challenges with optimism, things will always work out! Truly, things always work out!"
President Gorden B. Hinckley


"Rhino" By Jalen 2008

5 comments:

Marla said...

Awesome Jalen!! I love your art work - you've gotten so talented!

Erin said...

Jalen, you ROCK! Let us know if there is ever a wrestling meet later in the evening... we'd love to come!

hey, let's play guitar hero again... soon, very soon! I'm feeling the need to rock-out on the drums!!

Grammy Staffy said...

Jalen we are so proud of you. Like Marla said, you are awesome!Keep up the good work. Love, Grammy

bows and more said...

He sounds like such a great kid! OK,that is wierd that they both have the middle name Dane/Dayne! I also have a brother named Jordan, and a cousin named lenel/Lynell do do do do! I love you posts, you inspire me! Have a great day!

Unknown said...

I LOVE the comic strip photos! So fun!