The Olympics and Life

If you are like us, you probably spent time watching some of the 2008 Olympics in the past couple weeks. The strength, skill, speed, and dedication of these world class athletes is truly amazing to witness. As we watched some individual events and saw world records broken, it seemed that with the right motivation, training and coaching, the capabilities of human endeavors and endurance are almost unlimited. Part of the fascination of the Olympic games is the spark of imagination it gives to each of us about what is possible when someone sets a goal, believes what is possible, then pays the price necessary – years of training and practice for many hours a day in this case – to accomplish their goal. Though they all know that only one gold medal will be given in each event, the very idea that they just might become the “best in the world” drives them onward. And, while there is disappointment for those who don’t win the gold, generally there still seems to be enthusiasm and even exhilaration that they were able to participate. And clearly, each receives great benefit from their striving. The Olympic Games are a true demonstration and celebration of the human spirit.

All of us can draw inspiration by watching those who, through extraordinary effort, achieve excellence. It provides motivation for each of us to consider how we might be a little better in various aspects of our lives. Whether one works as a janitor, a surgeon, a judge, a technician, a mom or a dad, our lives can be fuller and more complete if we consider and work toward improving and achieving excellence. When we embrace the “habitual vision of greatness” [Alfred North Whitehead] our lives find their most satisfying fulfillment. The great British Explorer, Captain James Cook – first to circumnavigate the earth – said, “I had an ambition not only to go farther than any man had ever been before, but I wanted to go as far as it was possible for any man to go”. What would our experiences be like if in our journey of life we set our goals to go as far as it is possible for anyone to go.

The greatest pattern of excellence was given to us by the Savior, who taught that in our striving we should seek to “Be ye, therefore, perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect’. (Matt 5:48) And the prophet Alma taught, “I know that God granteth unto men according to their desire”. (Alma 29:14) It is clear that God intended that those whom He created in His own image and endowed with His own potentialities should live their lives with fulfillment and excellence. Amidst life’s challenges it is still a thrilling opportunity to devote our lives to improvement, growth and achievement.