A New Day

As you know the 2008 Summer Olympics are now over but there were many inspiring moments from which we can all learn some valuable lessons. Although there were many, I would like to focus my attention on two individuals.

First, Usain Bolt from Jamaica. Here is a young man, 22 years old, 6' 5" in height, and weighing in at about 190 pounds. His events: the track & field 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay. How did he do? Well, with a new world record of 9.69 seconds in the 100m, a new world record of 19.30 seconds in the 200m, and a new world record of 37.10 seconds in the relay, you can easily say he did absolutely great....and he has three gold medals to show for it. Now, winning three gold medals is inspiring in and of itself. So is setting three world records. However, the story behind the story is even better. You see, previous to this time the "experts" said that a man that tall is not capable of running that fast.

Second, Michael Phelps of the U.S.A. Here is another young man, 23 years old, 6' 3" in height, and weighing about 201 pounds. His specialty is swimming. This was Michael's second Olympics having previously competed in the 2004 Olympics in Athens. In 2004 he won 8 medals, 6 of which were gold. In 2008 he added to that by doing what many said he couldn't. He won 8 more gold medals and did them all in either world record or olympic record time.

The one thing I found in common with the two stories is the one lesson or piece of knowledge that provides the most value. Both ignored the naysayers and CHOSE to focus on all the positives. They set their goals, made plans, and BELIEVED they would achieve them. They had already succeeded before they succeeded. By understanding the principles embedded in the lesson, we can all enjoy and create our own inspiring moments throughout our lives.

Finally, I want to share a thought from a man by the name of Walter Bonatti. Bonatti, born June 22, 1930 in Italy, was known as one of the finest alpinist in the world. He was also famous for his pioneering efforts in climbing and his drive to only take on mountains that offered almost impossible challenges. His words are some we should all ponder. He said, "The mountains are the means; the man is the end. The idea is to improve the man, not to reach the top."

Make every day a productive day!