What Is It About?

Someone left a comment under the BELGRADE UPDATE post. To the individual who left it, I agree with everything you say EXCEPT your last statement.

While it is not about the trophy, COMPETING for trophies is healthy and natural, and WINNING a trophy when it is deserved is validation for all the work you have done.

If you do not think it is worthy to vie for trophies - and to EARN them - then do us all a favor and don't register when you bring your ride to a show. But for most of us, while trophies, themselves, are not very important, being recognized for the work you have done is a valid desire. It says that "this guy outdid himself."

Of course, we could get rid of trophies - but I doubt many would go to the shows. Then we could also get rid of all the other signs of accomplishment - medals in the military, honors at school, awards and merit raises at work, Father's Day cards - you know, all those "unimportant" things. If you want a Father's Day card, as the commenter said, "just go out and buy your own".

My point is simple - while it is not about the trophies, the trophies are necessary and, when earned, show accomplishment. So please do not regale us with your comments about "going out and buying your own if they are important to you." Because that is just tripe! If you EARN a trophy, you should get it. To earn it, and have someone else get it because they "know someone" is wrong, no matter how you cut it.

No, it is not about the trophy - but it is about being recognized for a job well done, just like in any other endeavor. If you doubt that, then pass when offered your next raise, and tell your child's school not to give your child any honors he or she might earn. And tell the Girl or Boy Scouts the same - you are not interested in your child receiving any merit badges he or she may have earned.

Get it?