Some Lessons Gathered and a Bit of Advice
As my year as Miss Pre Teen North
Dakota International 2020 prepares to come to an end soon, I have been thinking
back on these past months and how I’ve grown. Of all the lessons I’ve learned so
far along this journey, and some tips that might be helpful reminders to
incoming contestants, those considering becoming contestants, or those curious
at heart.
Here are a few of those things…
I have learned to always be
prepared, and to practice being on top of things. Well…I’m still working on ‘perfecting’
this, but I’m definitely making progress. I don’t think I realized at first
that ‘winning a pageant title’ would also mean a year of extra
responsibilities. My mom reminded me more than once that I had an important job
as a role model, and representing the Miss Pre Teen Crown at all times, which
was an honor I haven’t taken lightly.
Remember the things that matter
the most, and I’m not talking about the dress. I’m talking about your family
and friends and doing your best to be kind.
I mean…the dresses, shoes, jewelry, hair, and makeup are fabulous and sooooo
fun of course, but they are just a great bonus. We may never know how much our
kindness means to someone, and the ripple effect it can have on those around
us.
If you believe in something
strongly, you must stand up for that no matter what. Even if you are
the only one standing.
My advice to new contestants…
Always Be Yourself…Always!
Your platform is perfect because
it is important to you and you chose it. Share it everywhere you go. You ARE
making a difference.
Your dress is perfect because
you loved it and you chose it. Wear it confidently.
Love who YOU are and don’t
compare yourself to anyone else (except the old you).
Strive to be 1% better each day
and celebrate all the ups and downs you encounter.
Whatever you are doing… OWN IT!
You will meet so many beautiful
and amazing young women. Remember we are all sisters in this process, and although
this is a competition, we lift each other up – the only one we truly compete
with is ourselves. Let that be a loving competition.
As always, my greatest piece of
advice will be to Let Your Light Shine!
As Marianne Williamson said, “We
ask ourselves who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually,
who are you not to be? You are a child of God. You playing small does not serve
the world. There is nothing enlightening about shrinking so that other people
won’t feel insecure around you. As you let your own light shine, you indirectly
give others permission to do the same.”
Ashley Haas
Miss Pre Teen North Dakota
International 2020
Let Your Light Shine