The seventh grade threw me for a loop. New kids, new teachers, new courses and a Science that would add points to your grades if you were willing to eat chocolate covered crickets! I enjoyed his course, along with a few grasshoppers. Let’s just say I had Science aced without trying.
But many other things were going on around school that I never had opportunities to try in the my younger years. Mom suggested checking into a few options, try out, then see how it goes. Well, let me tell you…….I picked cheerleading. What a mistake! I faithfully practiced, at school and home. I was ready and would make the squad. My plan did not match the plan Jesus had for me.
When my turn arrived. I nailed the routine. I worked a “split” into my routine. I started the end of my routine. Finished with the best split I had ever accomplished! I felt incredible, until I realized I could not get up! One of the judges helped get me on my feet. Needless to say, I did not make the squad!
Ra Ra Re, Kick them in the knee……..Ra Ra Re, Kick them in the other knee!
Two Rights Attempting To Make A Left! 
I tiried out for cheerleader in 7th grade, too. I was tall and not particularly graceful, and I only did it so that my friend would try out, too. Neither of us was elected; there was a c-u-t-e little blonde named “Mallory” with lots of pep and personality, and everyone knew she would get it. Yet, she had the grace to hide her face when the stands exploded in cheers at the end of her act. I surprised even myself by being less than gracious to a nice boy who told me that he had voted for me, and I lost a chance to be friends with him. I didn’t want to be a cheerleader–I don’t know what I would have done if I had won! Yet, my ego was hurt all the same.
Our stories are terribly similar. Thank you for your lovely story…..Warm Regards, Jill