Why do you do that?
April 3, 2008 by claguna
Scientists learned about atoms through indirect observation. We studied objects hidden under boxes by rolling a marble and observing the path it took. It wasn’t as easy as it sounds!
I have been watching Josh work on his TSA project for the past few days. When testing was finished, he got out his paper and worked on the essay. TSA members work on projects that interest them and enter their work in a contest with other students from across the state. I have recently been working on a similar type of endeavor, a grant application. Even though he was working hard on his project, Josh asked me why I continue working on my grant project. I could have asked him the same question!
From time to time I get up the nerve to attempt another grant application. Teachers complete applications in order to “win” a sum of money for use in our classrooms. Sometimes I get the grant, but sometimes I am rejected and … no money for my class:( I always feel lousy when I am not successful!
Why do you think people are motivated by competition? Sure, we feel good when we win, but you would think that the disappointment of failure would prevent us from trying again. Maybe I like the competition more than I dislike the ocassional failure. Homer Simpson once said, “Trying is the first step towards failure.” 
Who knows! Keep on writing, Josh. You were my inspiration for the Da Vinci Science Center grant! I know you’ll do great at TSA!
p.s. Someone has to teach me some I.M. things so I have more than just and 
(I’m so boring!)
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Thanks for the luck and good luck with your dinner. I am glad i could be your inspiration.
P.S. thanks for revising my TSA paper.