The Junior Miss Pageant

I have been thinking a lot lately about my experiences with the California Junior Miss Pageant. It isn't something I have thought much until now but the more I think about it the more grateful I am to have had the opportunity to compete it in. I remember when I was first approached about participating- I was completely opposed. I am just not a pageant kind of girl. I am not sure who or what changed my mind but I am grateful they / it did!

Here are some of the things I learned:

1. Stage presence is more than just looking good on stage- it is being good in life and using the stage to share that goodness with others.

2. Competition is more about being your best self than being better than someone else. It is possible to be competitive and concerned for those you are competing will.

3. It is possible to do your very best and fail and still feel good about what you have done.

4. The audition begins the moment you step out of your car in the parking lot of the building where the auditions are being held.

5. There are a heck of a lot of people in the world who are WAY more talented than me. And their talent dose not diminish mine. There happiness and success dose not make mine less meaningful.

6. I can do difficult things. There were many times at the State Pageant when I wondered why I was there and thought I should just go home but... I didn't. I stayed and I did the best I could even when I knew there was no chance of winning.

These are just some of the things I have been thinking about lately and some of the reasons I am grateful for the experience. Thanks Mom and Dad for supporting me in it and making it possible for me. I know it was difficult financially and otherwise and I just want you to know that I feel like I am still reaping the benefits of your scarafice. Thanks!