First Sleepover: A Lesson in Competence

Dear friends, today I want to share a story from my youth, a tale that taught me the importance of competence. It was the night of my first sleepover, an event that was both exciting and terrifying in equal measure.

The Invitation

It was the summer of ’57, and my best friend, Tommy, had invited me to his house for a sleepover. I was thrilled, but also nervous. I had never spent a night away from home before. But I was eager to prove that I was capable, that I was competent.

The Preparation

My mother, bless her heart, tried to prepare me for the night. She packed my bag with all the essentials: pajamas, toothbrush, a favorite book. But she couldn’t prepare me for everything. That was something I had to do myself.

The Sleepover

The night of the sleepover arrived. Tommy’s house was a maze of unfamiliar rooms and sounds. But I was determined to navigate it, to prove my competence. I brushed my teeth without being told, chose a spot on the floor for my sleeping bag, and even helped Tommy’s mom with the dishes after dinner.

The Lesson

As the night wore on, I realized something important. Competence isn’t just about knowing how to do things. It’s about being willing to learn, to adapt, to step out of your comfort zone. It’s about facing the unfamiliar with courage and determination.

That night, I learned that I was capable of more than I thought. I learned that competence is a journey, not a destination. And it’s a journey that continues to this day.

Conclusion

So, my dear friends, remember this: competence isn’t just about skills or knowledge. It’s about the courage to face the unknown, the determination to keep learning, and the wisdom to adapt. And remember, it’s never too late to start your journey.

Until next time,

Kev