You are a real Winner!
So I rolled up the rim and won potato wedges. Really?
I have been a loyal Rrroll up the Rim player for all these years, and I won potato wedges? You're kiddin' me! Really?
Hey, I know that I'm not going to win one of the 40 Honda Civics . . . even though I'd like to. I know that I'm not going to win a $5,000 prepaid card from CIBC . . . but that would be nice. I have a real good chance of winning a coffee and have done so in the past . . . but potato wedges? I would rather be the official loser and roll up a "PLEASE PAY AGAIN" than roll up potato wedges. What is this anyway?
Look at it from my point of view: I do my daily, Timmy duty and line up as a polite customer, make my order, pay and pick up. My reward should be something more or less than this. Honestly, I would feel embarrassed trying to cash in my wedgie prize as the Timmy lady arches an eyebrow and scans my ripped cup scrap. Out of the 154 million cups distributed in Ontario, I don't want to win the "we felt sorry for you, so here's a little something" prize. Give me a coffee or bagel or give me nothing.
Before you start your award season at school this year take an honest look from the recipient's viewpoint about what they receive on your stage. A poorly photocopied and badly designed certificate is poor recognition for the top mark in grade 11 math. Budgets are tight, but recognition should have a value if it is going to be put on a stage. If the small, keeper plaque is too expensive, perhaps a well-designed certificate on good paper with a chocolate disk with the school crest is more recognition of effort.
Don't devalue your recognition by giving recognition of no value.
I still want to believe that I have a shot at the Honda Civic that might be rolling under the next rim of my Tim Horton's coffee. The promise of a decent reward is probably more value than my desire for the coffee. However, I won't be cashing in my wedgie winner. It's yours if you want it.
Here's recognizing that you do a great job in your schools, have a great February!
Dave Conlon