Dear Madison,

It has become pretty clear that you are shy.  I remember when I took that Child Development class in High School, and the teacher said that we should not tell a child that they are shy.  And while I don't say it front of you, it's pretty clear that you are shy, clear and cut.  I guess there are just some things that are a part of our personality.  We can't fight it.  It's just who we are.  And, girl, it's just who you are. 

Even though it was hard for me as a child to be shy and timid, I am glad that I went through that so that I can understand you better and what you are feeling.  I had to learn how to overcome my anxieties, insecurities, and fears, and you will too.  And with every step, I will be behind you.  Not to let you sink away and be defeated, but to encourage you to be the best you can. 

Last weekend was the Sailboat Regatta at church.  As we sat in the bleachers, waiting for the event to start, I could sense your fear.  And by some of things you were saying, I was once again reminded of your anxiety over new and unfamiliar situations.  I decided it was better to not address it and wait and see what you would do. 

When it was your turn to go up, you wanted me to go up with you, so I did.  We took your boat up, and put it in the water, and I could tell, you weren't going to do it.  When it was time to race, you stood, frozen.

And while I felt terrible for you, I knew that letting you sit down and not do it, would only cause you to miss out on something that I knew you would love.  And I knew that standing behind you and trying to coax you, would only make you more agitated.  So I stood back.  The race ended.  We took your boat back to the table and sat down. 

When you said you didn't want to do it, I assured you, "Madison, I promise you, nobody is laughing at you.  Everyone is happy to be here, and they are cheering for all of the kids.  Nobody is laughing at you.  If you don't want to race, that's fine, but you do have to take your boat up every time, because we committed to doing this."  And RaRa was there too, encouraging you on, just as she had done with me when I was little.

When they called your name again, you put your boat in the lane, and you did it!  I was so proud of you!

With each race, you did better.

You had a great time, and that was all that mattered.

Austin had a good time too.  He even won an award for the "Best Paint Job".

You were a little disappointed that you didn't get an award, but you were ok with it.  You are starting to understand that everyone can't always win, but everyone can have fun, regardless.

I loved your boat, and you painted and colored everything but the #9 all on your own.  No surprise that you wanted a rainbow boat.

Austin wanted a dragon boat, and after help from Mommy on the eyes and teeth, he painted and colored his by himself.

I'm so proud of you, Madison.  I'm proud of you for pushing your fear aside and racing, for trying something new, and for keeping a good attitude even when you didn't win.  This is just one of many challenges that you will face, and I hope you will always remember that I am behind you, supporting you in everything you do.