Spelling Bees & Childhood Trauma

So the other day, I was talking to someone about another person who is going through a rough time, but he is a quiet person who is not overly emotional, so it is getting forgotten.  Now, I immediately feel for this person because I am not necessarily vocal about my emotions.

This reminded me of a personal experience.  I was in the fourth grade.  I was one of two representatives for my class for the spelling bee.  I will protect the not-so-innocent and not mention anyone in this story by name, despite the fact that I really, really want to.  I can only imagine this other individual doing a quick google search of himself and seeing himself exposed for this not-so-shining moment.... Anyhow.

In short, both the other representative and I got eliminated and did not go on to win the bee.  I held it together like the mature composed serious young woman that I was.  This other individual did not.  I remember lots of crying (we're talking hysterical sobs) and the rest of the afternoon was dedicated to making this individual feel better.  We all got homework (myself included) to do something to make him feel better the next day (make a poster, bring in a snack, etc.).

The next day we had a huge party for him.  There were banners, there were balloons, there cookies galore!  I remember there was one tiny sign that said 'Good work, Jaime!' - I guess someone remembered I'd participated in the bee as well.  I remember thinking this was largely unfair.  It wasn't that I wanted this big fest for my own swing-and-a-miss, or even that I was upset about not winning.  And, what about all the other students in the class (who didn't even qualify for the spelling bee in the first place)?  Weren't we all equally failures?  How come the one person who was being all loud and emotional was getting all the attention and celebration?

I know they say 'the squeaky wheel gets the oil', but is that really fair in life?  I can't help but think that sometimes people like me, who aren't overtly emotional, at times have their feelings forgotten.  Is anyone else out there like me and feel this way?  Has anyone else had a similar experience of being forgotten because he or she was not throwing a hissy fit? I know I've had some friends say to be more vocal about my emotions at times, but it's just not my nature.  Your thoughts?