First and farmost congradulations to all the students who participated in this year's national spelling bee you all should be proud of your achievements.  However as I am sitting at home watching the bee tonight while flipping back during commercial breaks to check on the Cavs-Magic game I wonder quietly to myself would we be watching this if Kobe and the Lakres were looking to close out their series with Denver? 

Over the last few years I have noticed a larger following around this event.  I wonder why?  Not to be mean but aren't these the same kids that probably go back to school 2 weeks later and are getting beat up for their lunch money.  Hey don't think I'm the bad guy I was one of those kids handing over my cupcakes and bagged lunches praying to avoid having my faced punched in.    But for 2 hours on a Thursday evening these kids will have something to brag about, something they can feel good about. Of all the so-called "reality television" that hits the air, this is one of the best.

So lets give a hand to ABC for giving these kids a chance to shine and be cheered on not for how many points they score, how they hit or throw the ball but, just for being truly gifted.  Forget trying to spell some of the words these kids will attempt to spell but doing it in front of your peers and the rest of the world and still having the ability not to freeze up or pass out (I've seen that on Sports Center high light reel it did happen).  Congrads kids hold your head high and be proud to be smart.