Katie Ledecky and Simone Biles are all anyone is talking about. The two nineteen year-olds are both the best there is in their respective events. Ledecky is a swimmer, and Biles is a gymnast. But that's old news. Practically every household in America could tell you these two girls names and what they do. Biles recently won the women's individual all-around. When Ledecky swims, it's as if she's racing herself. I feel badly for both of them.
Don't get me wrong, I have great respect for them both. Their level of dedication for their sports is mind blowing, as is their level of talent. No one is better. They've proven that. They both seem like normal, happy people. But the world is watching them now, and their worlds will never be the same.
Soon they'll find that their medals can't make them happy. Yes, I'm sure it's a great feeling to win. Standing on the podium with the Star Spangled Banner playing has to be a feeling like no other. But, like Olympic diver David Boudia said, " It's just an identity crisis. When my mind is on this [diving], and I'm thinking I'm defined by this, then my mind goes crazy." Ledecky and Biles need to realize that they are not defined by their sport. Boudia finished by saying, "But we both know that our identity is in Christ, and we're thankful for this opportunity to be able to dive in front of Brazil and in front of the United States. It's been an absolutely thrilling moment for us." You can read Boudia's story here: http://www.christianpost.com/news/benjamin-watson-inspired-by-christian-faith-olympic-divers-david-boudia-steele-johnson-167853/.
When they get home they will find that there is more pressure now. While watching the Olympics, you will hear the commentators singing Biles praises. They called winning the all-around her "destiny." Talk about pressure! The fight for their attention is going to be crazy. And if they don't perform up to expectations, they'll learn how fickle people can be.
Nevertheless, they'll find they can do more now than ever. They have a voice now that the entire world is tuned in to. They can do so much. They just need to remember that different doesn't mean bad, and they have a unique opportunity not awarded to most people.
We also need to realize the same things. We are not defined by any outside things, but by our relationship with Christ. Success can be blinding. We have to take the opportunities given us and use them for good. Pressure can make or break us, but those who really matter will always be by our sides.
