This image is worth a thousand words to me. 

I volunteered to take a video of Harper’s teammate, for her mom so that she could focus on watching her daughter rather than recording.

I also snapped some photographs during the video and captured this image of my daughter positively beaming at her friend. 

They aren’t just teammates, but also competitors in the same age bracket. 

Both of these girls are new to Excalibur gym this year and moved from the Xcel program to Level 6. It’s a massive jump. They were both extremely behind the rest of their practice group when they joined last summer and have pushed themselves for 16 hours a week to catch up. 

It’s not easy. On top of the grueling practice, Harper is going from winning Gold medals at every meet last year to feeling thankful, this year, to leave with any medal hanging around her neck. 

But just look at her. Look at my girl. 

Look at my girl radiating sunshine to her top competitor, who would go on to beat Harper in every event at this meet. 

Look at my girl supporting her friend, despite likely hurting inside to know she’s been bested, yet again.

As a mom and a teacher and former coach myself, I could not be prouder to call her my daughter. 

Not only does she push herself for a sport she positively adores, but she also finds it within herself to support even her fiercest competitors. 

Harper, you may not win every event or any event this year, but you have won my enduring respect and awe. 

And believe me when I say, I will cheer for you, always. Whether you are up or down, I will cheer for you, my darling girl.