<p>I understand what you mean, but cheer up! You’re doing great! I know life feels like a great big competition, and truthfully, it is. You compete for summer programs, college admissions, and job opportunities. You won’t be the best at everything, and you won’t get everything. I (and many, many other people) have never made to a state/international competition. At all. You need to leave what’s in the past behind, including all of the “almost” and “would be” moments. Don’t dwell on them because in 20 yrs, they won’t matter. My advice is to just move on. It can be hard to swallow disappointment, but it’s for your own good. (Not saying give up, btw. Just keep moving forward ;p). Good luck!</p>