Representing the Potential in All of UsI love watching the Olympics. I find myself captivated by sports I never pay attention to (rugby, table tennis, cycling?), but the intensity of the competition and the skill and grace of the participants is "must see TV" Beyond the thrill of the games is the spirit and determination of the athletes. Individuals who have trained virtually their entire lives are pushing themselves to the limits of their capabilities and even beyond. And, almost universally, these athletes perform with grace and humility, recognizing the contributions of those who have prepared them along the way.
I also relish the diversity of the participants. Not just the diversity because of the nations from around the world being represented. But, the diversity within the teams, themselves. I embrace the U.S. Women's Gymnastics Gold Medal team for their excellence, but even more for the diverse American population that they represent. Their skin tones and parents' or grandparents' national origins may differ, but in the gym, they are the same - skilled athletes performing at the highest level while they represent their country.
I find the personal stories of many of the athletes to be the best examples of the human potential in all of us. Kathleen Baker was diagnosed with Crohn's disease a few years ago, just as she was emerging as a young swimmer of promise on the national stage. She continued to work hard and enthusiastically to achieve her Olympic dreams. This week, Baker won the Silver Medal in the 100 meter backstroke and exhibited more joy than any champion ever could. Cody Miller has a condition called pectus excavatum, which, in severe cases, can impair a person's heart or lungs. He started swimming at age 8 to help alleviate the condition. Today, at 24, Miller is the Bronze medalist in the 100 meter breaststroke, third fastest in the world. Allison Schmitt is a six-time Olympic medal winner, three of them Gold Medals in 2012. Shortly after the 2012 Olympics, Schmitt battled the demons of depression and struggled with her swimming and her personal life. Today, Schmitt is public about her experiences with depression and, at her third Olympic Games, she is a U.S. Team captain, a leader, and a role model. All of these athletes demonstrate the resilience which is in all of us.
Enjoy the rest of these Olympic Games, and think about these elite athletes who represent the potential in each person, regardless of race, religion, national origin, gender, or ability. It is what our work is all about.
Lee Sherman, President & CEO
