#26 true grit

For a few athletes, competing in the Olympics is a goal that has consumed most of their lives since childhood.  These talented men and women have spent countless hours preparing and training in the hopes that they will represent their nation on this world-wide stage.

In just over a month, the London Olympics will begin and, by design, we do not yet know who will be members of the United States team.  The U.S. track, swimming and gymnastics trials are occurring now and the final results of these qualifying events determine those who go forward.

It is hard for me to imagine being so close to something so big – while being simultaneously so close to watching the Games on television.  For their whole lives, those select few who do well in the next week will be known as “Olympians”.  Those who stumble will be known as “great athletes when they were younger”.

I hope that after the physical pain and mental heartache wears off for those not chosen that they can take pride and satisfaction for having given their all, even if it did not result in a medal.  These men and women have a dedication, talent and grit that we could only hope to emulate. 

Do your work as if you are trying out for the Olympics.  It doesn’t matter if you don’t make the team or win the medal – how you do your work in the “trials” is where true character shines.

-- beth triplett
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