“I didn’t come here to win a gold medal for the media attention. I didn’t come here to win a gold medal in order to find something within myself or some peace within myself. I found that self-worth before I stepped on the mat. I think that’s why I won the gold medal.”– Helen Maroulis (the first woman in U.S.A. Wrestling to win an Olympic gold medal)
The U.S.A. has had some ups and downs in the 2016 Summer Olympics. (I was personally disappointed to not see Jordan Burroughs and Adeline Gray not bring home the gold—two incredible athletes.) One thing that the Olympics often teach us is how to be graceful in defeat, as well as victory. I make it no secret that I love the sport of wrestling. I describe myself as a “wrestler in a basketball player’s body”. I have to live a bit vicariously through the truly great wrestlers, because my career was by no means illustrious. Nevertheless, I have learned some of my greater lessons in life through the sport of wrestling. The 2016 Olympics did not disappoint.
I also harbor a not-so-secret desire that my daughter will follow her father and brother into the sport of wrestling. Women’s wrestling has arrived. This year Helen Maroulis brought home the first American women’s gold in wrestling in the 53 kg freestyle category. Her success was not highlighted in the media. Nevertheless, the wrestling world took notice, and any others who were paying attention saw how she handled the media snub with class and great sportsmanship. In her response, she also taught us a great life lesson: “I found my self-worth before I stepped on the mat.”
Our self-worth is not in what we accomplish or the awards and accolades we receive. Our worth is with us at birth. It is only through personal growth and introspection that we realize that our worth is infinite and that we devalue ourselves. Each of us is uniquely suited to our own divine Purpose. With this in mind there is no one who holds a greater (or lesser) place in the world than do you or I. Sadly, we all fail to recognize this.
Helen Maroulis’ words serve as a reminder that we possess worth far greater than we credit ourselves. Our value is not in what we do—the medals we win (or don’t win), the money we make, the honors we receive, etc. Our value is in being who we are.
We all have the opportunity to achieve (extra)ordinary success in whatever it is we are purposed to do. It is ours to claim. It is not ours to achieve. We are called to do what we are made to do. Should our efforts lead to success according to the world’s standards—i.e., fame and fortune—then, great. Most of us, however, will never see such “success”. Still, we are of far greater value than the world or we give us credit. So, what? Claim your self-worth and be awesome!
Be your best today; be better tomorrow!
Carpe momento!