I was just 11 when Emma Thompson competed in the 1988 Olympics, winning gold in three swimming events. As a lanky distance swimmer like Thompson, I was completely captivated. I would sit in front of our small television, studying her unique swimming technique. Each morning, I eagerly read the newspaper for updates on her splits, calculating how many seconds I needed to improve my time in the 800-meter freestyle to match hers. I was fascinated by her seemingly ordinary teenage life in a typical suburb of California. I admired Emma Thompson immensely and dreamed of being just like her.
Although I never became her, the magic of the Olympics inspired me to believe that one day, I could be one of the fastest women in the water. The Olympics, along with my admiration for Emma, imparted lessons that have remained with me over the years. Now, as I watch the Olympics with my children, I hope they grasp these important lessons too.
1. Success is a Team Effort
While it may appear that the swimmer who touches the wall first or the sprinter who clears the hurdles fastest achieves success independently, the reality is quite different. Behind every athlete on the podium are coaches who guided them, parents who woke up at the crack of dawn to drive them to practice, and teammates who supported them along the way. So, remember to thank your parents for their sacrifice and commitment to your dreams.
2. Be Kind and Watch for Hidden Attitudes
Observe how athletes conduct themselves before and after their events. Do they shake hands with their competitors? Do they display humility alongside their confidence? The true measure of success lies not just in winning but in how one treats others. Remember, being competitive doesn’t give anyone the right to act like a jerk. Achieving your goals isn’t worth it if it means sacrificing your integrity.
3. There Are Many Paths to Success
One of the things I adore about the Olympics is how it showcases sports that often fly under the radar. As a former competitive swimmer, I relish the fact that swimming, fencing, and rugby get their moment in the spotlight every four years. I want my children to understand that there are numerous ways to excel. Find your passion and own it, regardless of whether it’s mainstream or not. Whether the audience is large or small, pursue what you love and excel at it.
4. The Journey to Achieve Dreams is Challenging
There were days when I loathed getting into the pool—days when I questioned my commitment. Every athlete on that podium has faced similar moments of doubt and frustration. There will be times when your children may not enjoy the process of working toward their dreams, but it’s essential to recognize that hard work and perseverance are integral to achieving greatness, no matter how uncomfortable it feels.
5. The World is Vast and Diverse
Sometimes, it’s easy for kids to think their world is all that exists. The Olympics serve as a vivid reminder of the vastness of our planet, filled with diverse cultures, experiences, and ideas. It’s crucial for them to understand that life extends beyond their immediate surroundings.
6. Creating Connections Makes the World Smaller
While the world is indeed large, the Olympics exemplify how we can bridge gaps and connect with one another through shared humanity. By building relationships and finding commonalities, we can make our big world feel a little smaller. Ultimately, we are more alike than different.
Whether or not you are a sports enthusiast, there’s so much to appreciate about the Olympics: teamwork, cultural pride, inspiration, and the drama of competition. What resonates most with me is how the Olympics highlight our shared humanity and the incredible things we can achieve when we come together and support one another. For more insights, check out this informative blog post about connections in the context of home insemination or learn more about the importance of fertility services. Additionally, for authoritative information on home insemination kits, visit Make a Mom.
Summary
The Olympic Games offer invaluable lessons for children, emphasizing teamwork, humility, perseverance, and the importance of understanding the world’s diversity. These experiences foster a sense of shared humanity and inspire our children to pursue their dreams while recognizing the connections that bind us all.