Title: The Passion and Obsession of a Spelling Bee Fanatic As I sit down to write this diary entry, my mind is still buzzing with excitement from yesterday's Spelling Bee competition. I don't think I've ever felt quite so alive as I did in that auditorium, surrounded by other word nerds like myself, all cheering on our favorite contestants and holding our breath as they spelled their hearts out. To some people, the idea of spending an entire day watching children spell words might seem like torture. But to a Spelling Bee fanatic like myself, it's pure magic. There's something about the beauty and power of language that just captivates me, and there's no better showcase for that beauty and power than a Spelling Bee. Of course, it's not just about the words themselves – it's also about the people behind the words. The Spelling Bee contestants are some of the most impressive young people you'll ever meet. They're smart, dedicated, and unbelievably talented. Watching them compete is a true privilege, and I feel honored to be able to witness it firsthand. But I'll be honest: as much as I love the Spelling Bee for its intellectual challenge and its celebration of language, there's also a certain level of competitiveness that I just can't deny. I want my favorite contestants to win, and I can get pretty invested in their success (or lack thereof). There have been times when I've shouted at the TV screen, willing a contestant to spell a word correctly – or, alternatively, begging them not to make a mistake. I know that some people might think that's a bit over-the-top. But to me, that's just part of the passion and obsession that comes with being a Spelling Bee fanatic. When you're that deeply invested in something, you can't help but take it seriously. All in all, I wouldn't trade my love for the Spelling Bee for anything. It's brought me so much joy and excitement over the years, and I know it will continue to do so for many years to come. Who knows – maybe one day I'll even get to see one of my own children up there on stage, spelling their hearts out and making me the proudest parent in the room. Until then, I'll just keep cheering on the contestants and living vicariously through their linguistic triumphs. Entries for the week of May 22, 2023.
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