It was the day of the open race, and Johnny and Timmy had decided to go. They couldn’t wait to run. They began to stretch and warm up for the race. It would be their biggest race yet.

But once they saw the other runners, they began to feel discouraged. These other runners looked a lot bigger and faster. Johnny and Timmy feared that they would have no chance at competing with the other runners.

“I don’t know if I can beat any of them,” said Johnny. “Maybe I’ll just watch the race instead.” Timmy was surprised. “So you’re just going to not try at all?” he said. “I don’t know if I can beat them either, but I still want to try.”

The referee was nearby, and he heard their conversation. “Why don’t you want to run?” he asked Johnny. “You came all the way here. Besides, it’s not just about winning. As long as you try your best, that’s what matters.”

“Maybe you’re right,” said Johnny. “I just don’t know how to build the courage to do it.” He looked at how focused Timmy was. “You look like you can win, though. I think I’ll watch you run instead.”

“Well if you’re not going to run, I’m not going to either,” Timmy replied. “You’re my best friend, and you help me believe in myself. I won’t be confident enough to run if you aren’t.”

“Well, I may just have something to help you boys out,” said Mike. He dug into his pocket, and pulled out what appeared to be a majestic whistle. The boys were fascinated with the glowing whistle, which was surrounded by magic orbs. They were very curious as to what this whistle was all about.

Mike continued, “Sometimes I get nervous about my job as a referee, and fear that I may make a mistake. Whenever I start to fear, I just hold my magic whistle, and I start to feel more courageous. Why don’t you give it a try, Johnny?” Johnny took the whistle, and he instantly started to feel bold and courageous.

Johnny was amazed. “I think it’s working!,” he exclaimed. “I’m ready to win this race!” Timmy was willing to run the race, but he had lacked confidence before as well. “Do you mind if I hold it? I’m a little scared by this race, too.”