One downside to going to an all-girls high school was that we didn't really have the true experience of homecoming: The pep rally, the football game, the dance, the homecoming court, etc.
I never really thought much of having missed out, but now that my own daughters are attending a public high school -- and one boyfriend is a contender for Homecoming King -- I can see that it is really something to experience.
And this year there have been two Homecoming Queens crowned that are worth crowing about. First is a young woman who gets that you don't have to compromise your talents or your femininity. She's just as comfortable wearing a football helmet and a tiara. I'd like to see her as a future Miss America -- and as a member of the USA World Cup Soccer Champions!
Not only was Brianna Amat crowned queen, but she kicked the game-winning field goal!
The other young woman was always known around the school for being a real sweetheart, and a true blue fan of her high school football team. She and her parents were simply thrilled that she made the top four. Watch as Mariah Slick -- who just so happens to have Downs syndrome -- is announced Homecoming Queen with her dad by her side:
And by golly, why couldn't Mariah be Miss America someday?
I was pleased as punch to show these stories to my daughters as evidence that it ain't only about fancy hair, piles of make-up, and a slinky dress. It's about the character of who you are that leads to the kind of success you can be proud of.
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