A "reward" one gets for merely participating. Although usually given with good intentions, more often than not it will remind the owner that he failed, and that his best is not good enough.
"Congratulations, here's a participation award, for doing your best!"
"...because apparently my best isn't good enough to actually win something."
"...because apparently my best isn't good enough to actually win something."
by xldr November 28, 2011