I was watching the opening ceremonies for the Olympics last night, and there was a big clip at the beginning before the ceremony started, showing a few athletes working out, practicing, talking and whatnot.
There was a bit where everyone said the same thing: It’s not the triumph, it’s the struggle. I’m not sure I embrace that whole-heartedly, but still. It caught my attention.
Struggle is not a word I’ve ever associated with an Olympic athlete.
Hard work, focus, intensity, competitive: all those things, yes.
But struggle? Struggle to me rings of doubt, of uncertainty, a lack of confidence in the outcome. Struggle, I identify with. Triumph, too, occasionally, but struggle, more often.
How interesting, though, that our best and brightest are presented as those who struggle.
And while I may be reading far too much into what basically amounts to a commercial for NBC Olympic coverage…
I am reassured.
And now – back to work.
