Artistic, Autistic and Altruistic

Welcome to “Athlos” a weekly blog which examines pillars of personal excellence and regularly brings together the worlds of Christian spirituality and sport.

Artistic

“In the beginning, God created…”-Genesis 1:1

Autistic Excellence

October 2023 was designated ADHD awareness month. Perhaps this is why there have been accounts of inspiring stories in the media recently about neurodiverse persons in different spheres of life.

As recently as yesterday October 26, 2023, BBC Sport featured a triathlete with autism. To begin with, any triathlete needs to be commended when one considers how grueling of a race that is, combining swimming, running and riding. Add to that, the limitations that come with being on the autism spectrum and you must sit up and take notice.

Enter Sam Holness. Brave. Visionary. Resolute. Undeterred. Competing in triathlons and Ironman endurance events, Holness apparently even caught the attention of Guinness World Records. With stellar support from his parents, Holness has surpassed expectations both as a neurodiverse individual and as someone forming part of a racial minority in his country.

I am convinced that every human being possesses inner creativity and excellence. Although we must exercise personal diligence, I have no doubt that the original source is divine. As a conference speaker shared recently, God is creative, referred to by many as the Creator. We, who are made in his image, are also creative. It’s who we are, whether or not you have honed your artistic ability. Do you believe that?

What Holness has done is to channel his internal energy, even with his limitations, and turned it into a fire that fuels the pursuit of greatness. When he competes, he wears a slogan on his clothes, “autism is my superpower”. I love that. What we may be tempted to call a weakness, Holness calls a strength. Now that’s inspiring.

Altruistic

It is a noble thing to encourage others when it would be so much easier to discourage yourself.

If you were inspired by this blog, please consider sharing it with one other person today. To learn more about these and other related themes that promote the cultivation of an integrated inner self, read UNBEATABLE! which is available on Amazon in print and as an e-book.