“She wasn’t even trying to get ahead!” I threw my hands up in frustration as I paced around the kitchen. I was trying to get my mom to see why my sister shouldn’t be allowed to compete in the two-person canoe race with me. “She’s a lousy partner! I had to do all of the work!” I threw myself into a seat and accepted the glass of juice my mom held out.
She gave me that look like I was missing something. Every time she gave me that tight-lipped smile and raised an eyebrow, I knew I needed to rethink something. “Your sister is your biggest fan,” she started out. “You really crushed her, you know? When you stormed away after your practice? She was crestfallen. She’s in her room trying to practice her strokes right now. I bet you could-” Before she could finish, I sighed. I knew she was right. I chugged the juice then ran up the stairs to Penny’s bedroom.
“Pen?” I said, easing the door open. She was on the floor, gripping her oar tightly and pretending to paddle. When she saw me, she shoved it under the bed and stood up blushing. “Hey, Bailey.” I felt my anger thaw, my mom was right. She was my little sister and she was just doing her best. “Good practice today,” I said. “I think we could’ve won if we just paddled on opposite sides at the same time,” I picked up her oar and started to demonstrate. She watched with wide eyes taking it all in.
We spent the rest of the afternoon in her bedroom coming up with signals and paddling speeds. “Thanks, Bailey! I can’t wait to hit the water tomorrow!” she said with a grin.
What theme, or message, is the story trying to teach the reader?
Most sisters get into arguments.
Build people up instead of bringing them down.
Do not show your fear.
Love can overcome anything.