There is a more important reason for beginning to compete, but I didn't figure it out until I was listening to classical music on the radio while driving to the competition. Twice after playing a composition, the announcer mentioned that the composer was in a period of "finding his voice" when he piece was written. It dawned on me that beginning to compete is the beginning of understanding that one has a "carving voice." At least, it was for me. The next step is learning what to say with the voice.
How did I do in the competition? Two first place ribbons and two second place. Does understanding that good carvings do not always win mean that winning doesn't necessarily mean carvings are good?