I went to an awards ceremony last night that I’ll remember for a few reasons. First, it was held in a packed school gym without air conditioning so it was hot as blazes and many of us were sitting in a puddle of sweat. Second, I got to see my daughter recognized for her play on the school soccer team, which was especially sweet because this year she had the guts to try out after not making the team last year.  Even better she not only made the team but was a starter.

Unfortunately the main reason I’ll remember this particular ceremony was the presentation of one of the school’s highest athletic honors. Asked to say a few words about the recipient a teacher/coach said the following (I’m paraphrasing): "I thought about how to describe this girl and what I think is that she and I are a lot alike; we’re both great athletes and students and we’re both really well liked. We had a love-hate relationship this year, and I yelled at her a lot but I think she’s better for it and I think we’ll see that as she succeeds at the high school and college level."

To be honest I couldn’t believe she’d said what she had so after we got home I asked my daughter if she’d heard the same thing. She said "yes" so it seems I did hear right.

Note to teachers, coaches and anyone else in a position to speak about their charges: it’s about the kids, not you. And even if you do believe you’re the greatest thing since sliced bread you aren’t focusing on them if you say "I like you ’cause you’re just like me!"