Welcome to “Athlos” a weekly Wednesday blog which examines pillars of personal excellence and regularly brings together the worlds of spirituality and sport.
Shining like Stars
“…Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky”-Philippians 2:15b
Shining in Sport
We love to see people shine. Whether it is a “rags to riches” story or just the sheer determination of someone who never up gave up during times of hardship, we share in the joys of victory. Let us, therefore, acknowledge the excellence of two young women in track and field.
Last weekend, the curtains came down on the first ever World Athletics Championships held on US soil. Congratulations Eugene, Oregon on a job well done. Special kudos go out to all the history-making athletes, especially those from Ukraine whose courage and tenacity are nothing short of admirable.
Yet, I use today’s post to spotlight both the feats and the celebrations of the USA’s Sydney McLaughlin in the 400 metre hurdles and the Bahamas’ Shaunae Miller-Uibo in the 400 metres flat. Mc Laughlin’s success was particularly inspiring as she broke her own world record, not for the first time. Miller-Uibo’s consistency in becoming a world champion the year after winning Olympic gold cannot be taken lightly. There’s more, however.
I do not consider myself to be a lip reader, but I am pretty sure that I saw both Sydney and Shaunae offer a prayer just after they crossed the finish line. The former appeared to have uttered the words “Thank you, God” as soon as she won. The latter seemed to be praying as she caught her breath.
I hope I read their lips correctly. Both of them did not overtly pose in a position of prayer at the end of their races, but almost looked as though the cameramen caught them in a private moment. Although I do not know for sure, what I love is the heart of these two world-beaters in apparently giving thanks to the One who makes it all possible. It is a mark of humility to recognize God’s gracious provision of gifts, even though we humans must still put our hands to the plough. Fantastic effort all around, Sydney and Shaunae.
Shining in Life
When grace and gratitude come together, great things happen.
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.
