I saw my grandkids at the weekend. Two of them had won medals for sporting success. They were excited to tell me about it and to show them off. Another had a certificate to show her graduation from language school. I was proud to be part of their celebration. And I didn’t mind that they were very enthusiastic. And that’s the way it should be.

But it seems we tread a fine line in adulthood. The reaction we get can be unpredictable. Or is it that we aren’t given as much latitude?

I know I am happy to hear a friend or relative has reached a milestone or goal. And wouldn’t be offended if they were exuberant.

I’ve reached goals set for myself this year. You’ll have read about them on this blog.

I have celebrated them with friends and family; I hope without excessive boasting. I have to admit to hoping to see impressed looks on their faces and to hear a few “wows” or “that’s incredible”. What I didn’t want was to go too far, and make anyone resentful or feel inadequate.

Over coffee at Sheree’s tea room Matt asked me about the last of my “events”. And was genuinely keen to hear about it and to ask questions. I must not have overdone it - he asked what was next. And made some suggestions.

To be honest I’m not sure how to top them, or if I want to. They were big undertakings. Where would it end?

Is the problem not with how we celebrate but how we react when we see it in others?

Maybe that needs to change.

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Celebrating success and achievement