April 22, 2008

sweet success


It's been a long time coming...but he didn't give up. Sometimes it got so bad that I wouldn't show him the results...because how many times can you give your all, and more, and then receive nothing. Some weeks brought me to tears...how can one child work so hard, and fall so short of the mark? So we'd just put more effort in the next week...and hope for better than a 20..or 30. Wonderful teachers reassured me that spelling isn't the end of the world. And I know, but the disappointment on a young boys face can sometimes feel like the end of the world. And my concern was that there was something we were missing...something that we weren't doing to help him. Because he has had the very best teachers...in the classroom, and as tutors & friends...teachers who have really cared...teachers who know that sometimes a hug is as important as the lesson they are teaching. So we've fought on and finally, we are now on the right track...and Cam's getting more of what he needs. And so the result is this beautiful spelling test...on words that the rest of his class is also studying at the same time. Maybe Cam doesn't have quite as many...but they are the same words. It is a fantastic accomplishment. And one he has enjoyed "showing off" to the people who have helped and encouraged him along the way. His 3rd grade teacher got goosebumps when he showed her! We all want success for our children...it doesn't have to be the biggest or the best, just enough to be comfortable. There is so much more in life than being the smartest or the fastest...like being nice or doing a little more than is expected. That is the success I want for my children. For them to know that what they give is far more important than what they receive. And that hard work really does pay off...

2 comments:

Suzanne said...

Oh, I am so happy for Cam. No one deserves it more than he....I know this is a big deal for all of you!
Your kids are fab, no matter what a piece of paper says....

carie said...

hip hip hurry!!! beaming with pride for you and cam!