Lessons from the Olympics

Although I have not been completely riveted to the television this week watching the Olympics, I have enjoyed watching several events and human interest stories. I’ve never played a competitive sport in my life, so I can’t begin to relate to the athletes in Rio, but I do feel that I’ve learned a great deal even as a spectator.

I’ve noticed that the happiest athletes are able to celebrate the victories of their competitors as well as their teammates. Such affirmation and admiration was especially evident after Tuesday evening’s performance by US gymnast Simone Biles. “It was so incredible, I don’t believe it,” said German gymnast Tabea Alt. “She is a hero for us.” “She’s amazing, amazing,” said Netherlands gymnast Celine van Gerner, “A really great legend.” “She does everything right, everything perfect,” said Russian gymnast Angelina Melinkova. “I like her so much.”

Instead of sulking or feeling jealous or even angry at the untouchable performance of their arch rival, these athletes chose to celebrate Biles’ talent, skill, and awesome performance. If gold medals were given for positivity and being a good sport, I would honor these other athletes for their integrity and spirit. They are winners too in my book. These competitors know how to live out the adage coined by Theodore Roosevelt: Comparison is the thief of joy.

Roosevelt’s wisdom has challenged me on more than one occasion. Throughout my life I have often struggled with comparing myself to others and coming up short. I’m embarrassed and even a little ashamed to admit how often I have let envy and jealousy creep in as I measure myself according to others. Sometimes my comparisons revolve around physical attributes, worldly possessions, academic prowess, professional accomplishments, etc. Such judgments create lose-lose scenarios. The other misses out on my appreciation, admiration, and respect. And I miss out on the joy that comes from sharing in another’s good fortune. Moreover, in comparing myself negatively to others, I fail to be grateful for the many gifts and blessings that I myself enjoy.

When I catch myself going down the negative path of comparisons and then call to mind Roosevelt’s words, I’m able to turn my attitude around. In those moments I can make the decision to celebrate others’ accomplishments and circumstances and also recognize that I have my own unique contributions and attributes worthy of celebration. I now enjoy a win-win scenario. I truly do want to live a life of elation, recalling the words of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin that joy is the infallible sign of the presence of God.

As we prepare ourselves for the coming academic year, may we resolve to keep comparisons at bay and focus instead on finding ways to celebrate the giftedness of all people and to count our own blessings along the way. Perhaps the Gospel of John says it best: “I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.” Can I hear an Amen?!