Not Fair

We had our final horse show of the year last weekend. Horse show days can bring about a firestorm of emotions for kids, parents, and trainers. Everyone is tired and stressed. There is disappointment and excitement, tears and smiles. And it all rides on the performance of a child and her horse and the nod of the judge. This show was a prime example.

Sometimes it's just not fair. The judge makes a crazy judgment. A late entry is unofficially allowed into a class (and then wins the class). The show booth workers mix up which classes are entered into the high point competition.

And then, my protege hears someone else's name announced over the loud speaker, turns to me, and asks through held-back tears if I will go tell them that they made a mistake.

She did so well today and had a hat full of ribbons to show for it. Did she really need another award? They aren't going to take back their decision anyway. Or maybe this is one of those moments where I need to stand up for her, support her. She's worked so hard, and I can tell it means so much to her.

I didn't realize the gravity of her question until much later.

In that moment, I just sat there. I told her that we'll get it next year. Then, I started packing up the trailer. She wasn't very consoled. And how can I blame her? When you're fourteen, these things matter. For realz.

She's come a long way, and she bounced back pretty quickly. As we turned onto the highway, she declared that we are coming back here next year to win that award.