The Dominant Species

In the meantime, I had to make many decisions about my kingdom. I always worked hard on making the right ones.

“You know, I feel good knowing how many talents I have,” I confided in my mother one time.

Mom looked relieved.

“I used to think that Giselle and my other classmates are better than I am at everything.”

“They can’t be better at everything.”

“Well, it used to make me feel like Giselle would think I’m useless and decide she doesn’t want to be my friend anymore.”

Mom held me for a second.

“That’s not true,” she said. “Giselle would never do that.”

“I know.”

“Besides, you have plenty of talents.”

“Thanks.”

“You are a great queen. You’re great at acrobats and magic.”

“Giselle is better.”

“No, you two are equally good at magic and when it comes to acrobats you are a little better.”

“Giselle is still great,” I defended my friend.

“Yes, she is.”

“So are you.”

“You think?” Mom asked, excitedly.

“Yes.”

“I was worried,” she confided.

“Why?”

“I used to practice acrobats as much as you do when I was a princess, but I hadn’t had as much time since I became queen. I became a little rusty.” “But you’re still great.”

“Thanks. And if you’re looking for areas in which you are also great or the best, there you go. Besides, isn’t it enough that you’re great? Do you have to be the best?”

“I guess, great works too.”

Mom always managed to lift my spirits whenever I felt bad about myself. Lately, I haven’t felt bad as often as I used to and that made me feel great. I hated feeling inferior and I had dreamt about being as confident as Alastair for years.