we spent ~~more than i care to admit~~ several hours at a district track meet last night. harrison, the youngest son, is excelling beyond my imagination in several events. to watch him brings me such joy. last night, he was one of a handful of boys who made the cut from their school to compete at the district level. we all had great hopes of walking away with records and 1st place spots in most, if not all the events.

it didn't really happen like that. oh, he did well.

very well.

made this mama so proud.

but there was the one young man from another school that stayed just ahead of him, in. every. event.

we got home and i asked him about this boy that was just ahead of him in all 3 of his individual events. he shrugged. i asked if it bothered him that he lost to the same guy all 3 times. his response has been in my mind and on my heart since...he said ' well, i need someone who will push me. its not fun without the competition.'

spoken like a man. and a competitor. and a realist.

we all need someone who will push us just a bit further. without comparison. i am still not sure how the balance of that happens, but i am learning i need those in my life who will push me. press me for more depth than i think i have. stretch me into thoughts and actions that are a bit 'out there' for me in the moment.

i love this man {child}. i love watching him grow and i love how he challenges me and pushes me just by him being himself.