I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes) to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. – Rev 3:18
The United States women’s gymnastics team took the 2012 London Olympics by storm, securing its place as the most dominant group in the sport’s history. Gabby Douglas, McKayla Maroney, Aly Raisman, Kyla Ross and Jordyn Wieber were a picture of team spirit. The women’s team posted a crazy-good overall score of 183.596, more than five points better than silver-medalist Russia (178.530). In a sport that is often decided by tenths of points, that margin of victory is other worldly.
I discovered gold in their hearts before they delivered the gold medal for the USA. Jordyn Wieber is my hero. Why? She failed to qualify for the individual all around medal. The night she didn’t make her personal goal for gold – she cried tears of disappointment, the kind few of us have experienced. Having dedicated her life to this goal, I can only imagine her personal despair. But wait… that’s not the real story.
Here’s the headline, “Weiber Mines Gold for Team”. Pushing back tears, Weiber made it all about the team and those who made the overall. Finally, I discovered in this talented teenager the character of a statesman. The kind of integrity that is sorely needed across this country – this power-packed lady embodies the character much needed in this nation. Instead of tearing down the system and all its frailties; or, demeaning others – she steadfastly stood before the world and took the high road. Folks, she gutted it up and praised those who had achieved their personal best. Even at her own expense. I LOVED IT!
Every day, I hear the lament of people across the country about all that is wrong. Easy to do…what isn’t easy is digging deep to demonstrate class, integrity and perseverance. It’s time to turn the tide in this country and embody the spirit of exceptional individualism, not selfish narcissm. What will that take? Character, not just muscle and brawn. I am inspired that our youth are being nurtured to understand true success.
YOU GO GIRL –Jordyn, you just schooled the nation on class.