Overcoming Life’s Challenges: Lessons from Olympic Heroes on Resilience, Hope, and Triumph

Some watch matches and athletics on television as pastimes or to divert attention from everyday frustrations and disappointments.

As a sportsman, I cannot turn my back on football, the sport that gave me so much, without which I do not know what life would have looked like. Despite my love for sports, I only have the luxury of watching television part-time. But between reading and writing, I try to partially watch great sporting heroes and heroines do their things on television. In the process, I look for lessons that could add value to my processes to encourage others, and I found a few examples this morning.

Sarah Ann Hildebrandt, a United States of America wrestler, faced mental health challenges, including depression, during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. She was psychologically traumatized and almost lost it. The pressure of the competition and the weight of her struggles nearly overwhelmed her. But she was able to win a bronze medal. Come the 2024 Olympics, she emerged victorious, winning three gold medals in wrestling, a testament to her resilience and determination. She has finally turned the curve to overcome. Her journey from the brink of defeat to becoming a three-time gold medalist is a powerful example of the human spirit’s ability to triumph over adversity.

Nina Kennedy, an Australian athlete, battled depression with unwavering determination. Her never-give-up spirit, a source of inspiration, led her and Australia to victory, winning the women’s pole vault gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her triumph is a reminder that even the most difficult battles can be won with determination and perseverance. It is a message that can bring hope and encouragement to those facing their struggles.

Salif Mane, a testament to the human spirit, lost his Father, Thierno Mane, to COVID-19. Instead of succumbing to grief, he turned his loss into inspiration. His motivation is something many would take for granted. He listened to his father’s voice message on his phone before every competition, including this Olympics, where he emerged victorious, winning gold for himself and the US in the triple jump, a shining example of triumph over adversity. His story is a powerful source of motivation and empowerment for all of us.

So, what are you or someone close to you passing through that makes life look like a dark alley filled with unimaginable uncertainties? What do you or someone close to you think is impossible and, therefore, want to give up on life? What is it you or someone close to you internally feel that makes you feel the entire world is against you? Why do you think you are alone in this particular situation? My dear friend, we all face challenges, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times. But remember, you are not alone in this journey.

Friend, I say to you, if you are reading me or the person close to you with any challenge, who cannot read me, you can make the person realize that being alive is a privilege. Being alive is a privilege because only the livng can hope and wish for a better tomorrow. That you are alive means being preserved for a purpose. The dead cannot read nor hope for anymore tomorrow.

So, rise and let the stories of Sarah Ann Hildebrand, Nina Kennedy, and Salif Mane motivate you to trudge on. Their stories are a testament to the human spirit and a reminder that it cannot be over until we overcome. Remember, you are not alone in this journey and have the strength to overcome any challenge.

Grace and peace!!!