This is how I see it. Last Yelim, never even made it to the podium. This year she’s coming into December with 2 JGP silvers and a CS bronze. The First Lady to make to the JGPF since Yuna. I imagine all this sorta got into her head. But I am a firm believer that failures make us bring out of best successes in the long run. I’m a few weeks she’ll be in Korea competing as a senior for a spot at 4CC. She’ll remember this competition and it will make her more focused and determined. It will make her even more determined at nationals, 4CC and junior worlds. This is just a minor setback in a really long journey of hers.
Look at Stephan. He bombed terribly at JGP Richmond and that almost cost him a chance at the JGPF. But that made him more focused and determined. This time he didn’t cave under the pressure. He didn’t let a fall derail him. That’s why he’s the Junior Grand Prix Final Champion this year. Have faith and watch her rise from this.
Of course I'm very much proud of Yelim on just being here and not crumbling under the pressure of it all, and I know she'll grow even stronger (and yes, there's so many competitions to come where she can -and will- shine). I think I'm more upset on her not being happy with both of her skates, that look of resigned disappointment repressed under a calm smile, that's just... See, I have this thing, it just pulls at my heartstrings when young skaters try to stay calm and be mature, I love that they are mentally strong enough to pull that off (I'm older - although not that much - than them and I'm failing miserably on that), but... Like, Yelim's 15, nobody would fault her if she broke out in tears, but she doesn't and even tries to smile. That's just... I don't know, I think I have an older sister complex of some sorts.