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"Every kid gets a trophy"

Discussion in 'General Baptist Discussions' started by Salty, Mar 24, 2023.

  1. Salty

    Salty 20,000 Posts Club
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    This is not exactly about every kid getting a trophy but -
    Well, let me explain:

    In my younger days, for several years; I used to attend a summer Bible Camp.

    One highlight of the week was when the King and Queen were announced.
    The King and Queen were chosen based on their Christian character, memorizing Bible verses,
    and ect. Being crowned King & Queen entitled you to a free week of camp the following year.

    One year, I was crowned King - -an event I will never forget.

    Over the years - for whatever reason - the Camp decided to do away with that honor.

    Recently , I wrote to the camp and recommended that the King & Queen be re-established - at least for the two Jr High weeks. I also mentioned that I would be able to financially support up to $50 for each of the four honorees. This $50 would only be about 15% of the total weekly tuition.

    Well, I talked to the Director today - and I was informed that they do not want to have this event. The reason being - A) a lot of kids would not care about it B) The kids who did not win - would feel bad C) they would not want it to be a competition - among others.

    Rather, they would want me to contribute to the general "scholarship" fund which is used to help kids attend camp who could not otherwise afford to attend.

    I am of the mindset - that we should recognize the achievements of our kids - and it will be my desire NOT to give to the general "scholarship" fund - especially if they will not consider the earned scholarship program.

    And what are your thoughts about this.
     
  2. KenH

    KenH Well-Known Member

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    Christianity is not a competition.

    Galatians 5:26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

    Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

    Leave competition to free markets and sports, not in spiritual things.
     
  3. Salty

    Salty 20,000 Posts Club
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    But I do not see it as a competition-
    The only time I used that word in the OP was quoting the camp director.
    In fact, for the first year - I was going to say that nothing should be said of the award until the winners are announced.
     
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  4. Salty

    Salty 20,000 Posts Club
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    Bumping this -
    any new thoughts?
     
  5. tyndale1946

    tyndale1946 Well-Known Member
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    Many years ago I was a coach in the Challenger Baseball League and every kid was a winner... It is baseball for disabled children ages 6 to 22... No score was kept and everyone got to play... Parents on both side rooted for each and every kid on both teams... Boys and Girls both played... We had kids in wheelchairs, and as soon as one kid hit the ball another kid would wheel them to first or they could wheel themselves or if they had an electric wheelchair they could wheel themselves... We had a special ball for a blind girl, that made a loud beeping noise that she could hit... We had children of all disabilities and if they want to play baseball and we could accommodate them they could... I just checked an now they have a buddy system, where every disabled child is assigned a buddy to help out... I don't recall if we had that or not but it was fun for all and no child if they wanted to play was left out... Where every kid is a winner!... Brother Glen:)

    Btw since baseball is coming up soon and if you know of any child who may qualify, check out The Challenger League in your area and attend a game, you might enjoy yourself.
     
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  6. MrW

    MrW Well-Known Member

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    Why can’t they have both? Have a competition for king and queen with a special gift, and have a general scholarship fund for those who are in need?
     
  7. MrW

    MrW Well-Known Member

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    The apostle Paul likened the Christian life to a competition, specifically, a race, and said all do not win the prize. He also said he fights, not as one that beateth the air.
     
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  8. JonC

    JonC Moderator
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    I think it depends on age (in both sports and memorizing verses). At a younger age maybe it's best to encourage participation by reward and later as competition.
     
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  9. Salty

    Salty 20,000 Posts Club
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    Because (according to the Camp leaders:)

    1) some kids will feel left out if they don't win
    2) other kids will only do it for the prize

    They suggested that I put my donation into the general scholarship fund for those who cannot afford to come.
    That I will not do.
     
  10. JonC

    JonC Moderator
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    I've been here over 20 years. Where is my trophy??? :mad:
     
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