Ken, so well put.
These days it is easy to get caught up in the craze of it all, the excitement of winning, and the sadness of "losing." But the only real losers are those who have missed out on the true meaning of FIRST. FIRST has grown to immense levels, with so many countries, so many high schools, and so many regionals now. It is a beast that it never was before. It has the power to affect so many now, but yet it makes it that much more difficult for all of us to really figure out what it is about.
Dean & Woody constantly speak of upholding the ideals of the program. Dean even gave his speach at FLR saying similar to what Ken said here... it is no one's fault if you fail but your own. The opportunity is there for all of us to succeed. Every single one of us can "win." Its what we choose that makes it reality. And this is true for students and mentors alike.
It is so amazing and inspiring to see kids who get it, kids who get that its more than just the plastic trophies and gold medals, kids who want to strive for the chairman's award more than they want to win the championship, kids who are excited to go out into their community and spread the word about what FIRST has given them. I am blessed that my "kids" are among this growing crowd. And looking around these forums there are so many out there.
It is easy to get wrapped up in ref's calls, or someone's different opinion in a thread... we all are guilty of it at times, but overall, dont let it be your deciding factor. Ken has put it so beautifully here... reading it I felt like I was listening to one of those amazing speaches that Dean gives. The ones that make you want to run out and do everything you can to be your best. So do that, show everyone your best side... and have fun in Atlanta
