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Presence Over Perfection: The Photo That Won a Trophy 🏆

 


Day 1 of a four-day state chess tournament. Sun’s out, pairings pending, snacks inventoried like a military operation. I leaned in for a quick selfie with my little champ. One click, one smile, and we ran to the hall.

I had no idea that same photo would come back on Day 4 wearing a medal of its own.

On the final day, there was a “Parent Child Duo” photo contest. I submitted this simple selfie. No filters, no staging, just a mother and her boy outside the venue, eyes full of hope (and a backpack full of everything from water bottles to paper clips). And guess what? It won a trophy!

Behind every child seated at a chessboard is a list of quiet routines: the early alarms, rush ready, quick prayers, packed tiffins, and the hush of waiting outside as clocks tick inside. Sometimes we’re coaches, sometimes were cheerleaders, often we’re tissues and shoulders. We’re are always there.

To the organizers, arbiters, coaches, and volunteers. Thank you for building these arenas where discipline meets dreams. To the kids, your grit is the real headline. And to my fellow parents 🙏 you’re the quiet strength behind every board

Two little reminders this selfie gave me:

  • Presence is power. You don’t have to fix every position; just sit beside the child when they need you the most.
  • Memories  >  Medals (and sometimes you get both! 🙌).

Dedicated to all chess/sports parents who wake up long before the kids, keep everything ready, wait patiently as the child plays, multitask through nerves, wipe tears, offer a shoulder, and share the wins. Your effort and presence make a real difference. Let’s take a bow.

                                  The Beautiful  Trophy - Thanks to Golden Aura Trust 

Keep believing in your child and yourself. 💖
 Gowthami Saraf,  
Founder - ELEVA™

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