I used to watch award presentations with mild interest. I'd root for my favorites and, of course, be disappointed when they didn't win. But I've noticed a change in my emotional involvement with these ceremonies over the last couple of years. Now I get downright teary-eyed over the winners. Who can help it when you consider all the effort it has taken that individual to get to that point? We are talking about the realization of a person's dream. And it took a lot of hard work and determination (and, yes, a little luck) to get there.

Yet, I am truly amazed when I meet people who think blessings should fall their way with no effort on their part. These are the same people who scoff when they see others struggling to reach their dream. What separates them from us? Fear and jealousy I suppose. Just by the simple act of putting words on paper we are taking a risk they would never consider because it involves taking a chance on one's abilities. So they try to sabotage us with caustic words, unfair criticism, and ridicule. We keep on, undeterred (hopefully) by negativity. Jealousy grows because they can't do what we do -- fear won't let them. We come out winners in the first race toward our dream.

But what about those who race with us? I've seen a sad trend there too.

Years ago, before I began my career as a writer, a woman came into my office for a notarization. While I was completing the paperwork, she looked at the certificates on the wall and said, "Well, you certainly love yourself, don't you?" I was so embarrassed and afraid that others would think me self-centered that I took them down the next day.

After I became a writer, I was mentioning to another writer that I had entered one of the organization's more prestigious contests, but had not done as well as I'd hoped. Her response? "Yeah, [so-and-so] won that and she wears that damn thing all the time." When I replied, "I'm sure she worked very hard for it," all I got back was a snort.

On another occasion, civilian employees were recognized on the Marine Corps base where I work. Some received cash awards for special achievement. I spent three hours listening to one of my friends complain that her section was not among the recipients. Three hours! (I finally told her she was on time out.)

What do the three scenarios above have in common? Sour grapes as far as I could tell from the bitter whining. Yes, it's difficult to be on the losing side, especially if you've worked hard to win. And while there is certainly nothing wrong with expressing disappointment, it is wrong to dwell on it and diminish the abilities of those who have won.

I'm more experienced now and no longer intimidated by the snide remarks of strangers. I proudly display my certificates at work. Any recognition I receive as a writer goes on my office walls at home. Why? Because I love myself? Well, actually there are two reasons. One, these awards are tangible confirmation of goals reached. Believe me, we all need to see that. Two, it's my way of honoring those who have so graciously honored me. It shows you have respect for them and pride in what they've given you. That means so much more than shoving it away in a drawer.

So -- I say put those plaques and certificates on those walls. Make a scrapbook of those articles, ribbons, and letters. You've earned them, doggone it! If you don't take pride in your accomplishments, how can you expect someone else to? And the next time you hear someone pressing sour grapes into that gratingly bitter whine...well, I'm sure as writer you can think of an appropriate response.

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