Alex watched all the other kids riding their bikes without training wheels. Alex's bike still had the extra wheels on, and it made Alex feel like a baby. Alex's dad had promised to teach how to ride without them, but Alex was scared of falling.
'Everyone falls when they first learn,' Dad said. 'It's part of learning. The important thing is to get back up and try again.' Dad held the back of the bike seat while Alex pedaled slowly down the sidewalk.
The first time Dad let go, Alex wobbled and crashed into the grass. It didn't hurt much, but Alex felt frustrated. Dad helped Alex up and said, 'That was great! You went three whole seconds by yourself!'
Alex tried again and again. Each time, Alex went a little farther. Sometimes Alex fell, sometimes Alex didn't. By the end of the afternoon, Alex was riding down the entire block without help.
Alex couldn't wait to show Mom and to ride with the other kids after school. Most importantly, Alex learned that being brave meant trying, even when you might fall. Now nothing seemed impossible.