The Great Second Grade Race

Embracing who we are isn’t always easy, is it? Whether you’re naturally shy or loud, tall or short, too skinny or not skinny enough—it’s like God passed out personality traits and I got in line twice for “extra personality" and missed “graceful coordination” completely.

Growing up, I was not exactly my own biggest fan. I was short, round, loud, broke and bossy. I didn't put up with much without clearly expressing myself- even to my bullies which didn't always end so well for me. You know you’ve got confidence issues when you’re trying to schedule your own beatdowns.

One year, in second grade I was convinced to sign up for the longest race at Field Day with a friend… against the two fastest, most popular boys in the next grade up. Except she didn't sign up at all. When I found out, I was mortified. I have never been made to run. Even my mom was willing to let me stay home that day... yet something in me- stubbornness, was going to do it anyways.

So there I was, 2nd grade me standing at that starting line with two track stars who probably had Nike sponsorships. I am sure my absurd amused adults on the sidelines if they were in their right minds. BUT I DIDN'T CARE. I was there. I was going to own this knowing full well I had zero chance and would take forever.

We ran that day.
They took off like gazelles. I took off like a brave little meatball.
No surprise ending- I lost- really bad.

But I finished.
I wasn't proud. I just proved I did it.

Loking back- I had some serious guts. God put a fighter in me. Not the kind that always wins, but the kind that shows up.

That stubborn little racer still lives in me- and I rather like her most days. I have stood up against the big guys on more than 1 occassion- and sometimes alone (never fun). But I have held my ground and each time it came out what I fought for. A 4 way stop. Check. A Walmart not behind a neighborhood. Yup. An inappropriate book out of a classroom. Yep- me again-I was really slammed for that one.

And here’s the truth:
God made each of us that way. Different. Quirky... Stronger than we think. Really we all have a fighter in us.

📖 “I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:14

He didn’t mess up when He made you loud, shy, tall, short, thick, thin, awkward, or extra. He wired you perfectly for your journey.

📖 “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

So when you’re staring down your own “race”~ whatever it is~ pray for courage. You may not win, but you can show up and finish strong.

Because sometimes victory isn’t crossing first, it’s just getting on the track when everything in you wants to stay home.

📖 “Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus.” Hebrews 12:1–2

God made you to endure, to grow, to laugh at yourself, and to rise again.
So the next time life tricks you into running with the fast kids.... lace up!