One for All, and All for One?

Don't you just hate sibling rivalry sometimes?! The competition between brothers can be so painful especially when one wins and the other doesn't.

The first thought through a parents mind is " Great job_______ that is awesome!" Unfortunatly, the second thought is "Ugh, how is ______ going to feel?"

It sort of ruins that moment of joy you have for your winning child.

So, to prepare Spencer for an upcoming blow I had a talk with the boys about how when one person in our family does something well, it's like we all did well. I compared it to a soccer or baseball team. When one player has a good play or makes a goal, the whole team gets the point.

I asked each boy if he would be happy for the other if that person won something and he didn't. They said that they would.

Part one: check.

This morning at the relections assembly, our family had a winner. Cameron won in the visual arts category. Spencer received an award for participating.

Part Two: Check.

I got the two boys together afterwards for a joint picture. At first, Spencer wouldn't smile.

Mom: "Spencer, just yesterday you said that you would be happy for Cameron. Remember?"

Spencer: "No, mom. I said I would be proud of him.....not happy."

Part Three: (bomb whistle and explosion) No check.

He eventually came around....sort of! Cameron, we are all so proud of you. Good luck at the regoinal level. Way to score for the team. Spencer, you scored too....for finally being happy AND proud of your brother!