Ahh the FFA leadership season has come to an end. After many nights of practicing a harrowing trip on ice covered roads, witty candidate speeches the dust has settled and we are in for another year of full FFA participation. Anna came away with the district president position coupled with her new chapter office as the vice president.
Aliza won the opportunity to be the next chapter reporter. A perfect fit for her and one that will further sharpen her writing abilities.
Harold also ran but was narrowly beaten out by a person from another family. It is a blessing and hardship to go through high school with your siblings. We guessed going into elections it would be unlikely they would all come away with an office. Harold was slightly bummed but understood he is involved in a lot of other clubs and has many opportunities in his future. My main hope is that he will again be able to attend the leadership camp as that was a highlight last year for him.
And after a disappointing trip to the sectional speaking and parliamentary contest the girls came away with some disgust at the judgements handed down. Both had gained a lot of ground by the practice leading up to the contest. Each night they would go to a neighbors house, present their speeches, answer questions then discuss some agricultural issues. This was a great experience, and generous help from our neighbors. Because of all the practicing Anna was ready for a new challenge.
She was asked to represent youth, agriculture, and FFA speaking at a hearing for a piece of legislation currently in the Oregon political assembly this year. I studied and pondered about the topic and wrote her statement. I coached her on what the issue is and sent her a few articles to read so she would have an idea of what is at stake. She practiced a bit and then headed off on a high stakes adventure. She and other high profile agriculturalist headed to Bend early one Saturday to sign up to testify. Having come the farthest they were guaranteed to be heard. I prayed and I prayed hoping she would not be confronted, she would be poised, and she would be calm. I had a sure witness he was being helped by guardian angels. Anna comes from a long line of people who when necessary stood up for themselves and for what they believed was good and true. Most of her ancestors lived quiet lives of integrity, service, and long hours of work. She has been raised similarly. She took her turn and read calmly and confidently the written statement. All reports say she did well. She loved the experience! In the middle of the hearings one of the elected representatives who was hearing the testimonies brought her this note.
This was a great day for her. One that cemented all the hours of learning, practicing, and refusing to accept loss as indicator of true ability. I think that is the best thing I have learned parenting is although doors close with agonizing swiftness new doors open just a few days down the road. One set back or blown out dream is not the end of the road. In deed it often is just another step on the road of success or opportunity. Anna learned as much in the car ride as she had all year about ag. She showed the skills gained from being involved in FFA. Learning is always good, and experience is a powerful teacher. Elected officer or not, winning and loosing all contribute heavily to the people I hope my kids become. And as I tell them on the side FFA is a great way to miss lots of school.
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