Originally this post was going to be about gold versus silver medals - how the media seems to love to say, "So and so lost the gold medal" instead of saying, "They won the silver medal." And this post is about that. Because that is important. These athletes train for years for this event, or series of events, that only happens once every few years. Many of them never win a single medal. But they can still say proudly that they made it to the Olympics. Maybe they finished eighth, tenth, fifteenth in their sport or event. But that is tenth..in...the...world! They are all elite athletes, and they should all be celebrated for their accomplishments. Of course everyone wants to win gold. Everyone wants to be at the top. But silver, bronze, and even finishes off the podium should receive recognition and deserve praise. Michelle Kwan said it best: "I didn't lose the gold. I WON the silver."
I have seen so much good sportsmanship at these Olympics and it has truly warmed my heart. Gymnastic teams congratulating each other, hugs all around. Even hugs and high fives for a member of another team just for completing a routine. Swimmers reaching across the ropes in the pool to embrace, raising each other's arms in the air. Two male high jumpers immediately agreeing to share gold when their efforts resulted in a tie. The athletes come from different countries, they have different customs and traditions, but they can all speak the language of respect and admiration for hard work and accomplishments.
And now let's talk about Simone Biles for a minute. Simone Biles, the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) of female gymnastics. Simone Biles, who had so much pressure going into these Olympics because she is the GOAT, had the intelligence and the inner fortitude to step back, to withdraw, so she did not risk physically injuring herself or keeping her teammates out of medal contention. And she has received some flak from her decision. But you know who hasn't criticized her decision? Anyone who has ever been a gymnast. Because they get it. Gymnasts understand the stress and the rigorous training and the "twisties" - when your mind and your body are out of whack and you don't know where your body is when you try to land and you risk serious damage to your body. They get it.
What Simone did should be a lesson for us all. Listen to what your mind and body are telling you. Do what is right and safe for you. Make decisions that are in your best interest. The haters will hate. But the people who matter will love you and be thankful that you are alive and in one piece. And the example of self-care and mental health that you displayed will inspire millions, and likely save some lives in the process. That is what Simone did at these Olympic games.
librarianintx
