I watched her as she ran down the court. She was tall and slender with long muscular legs, the perfect shape for the girl’s basketball team. This high school student had no problem hanging onto the ball even with the other team’s most aggressive forward trying to take it away from her. As she passed the guard she leapt in the air and went for the shot. The ball sailed through the air and went straight through the hoop, nothing but net. It was a sight to see.
It wasn’t until after the game that I noticed her left arm. It looked small and withered compared to her right arm. She carried it close to her body as she hoisted her bag up with her other arm. I marveled at the skill with which she played her sport. She had scored the majority of the points in the game. Later when I inquired about the young girl, I learned that she had been voted “Most Athletic” in her senior class.
Later, I was told that she spent hours perfecting her game. She ran track and participated in other sports all throughout the year and gave each one her very best. The girl was adamant that what one woman could do, another could too, and that meant her. She truly believed that she could succeed in anything she sat out to do, and so she could.
I was inspired by this athlete’s ability even before I realized that she was doing with one hand what many people were reluctant to do with two. Seeing her commitment to excel made me want to take my skills up a notch.
When I see others achieve greatness, especially in the face of adversity, I have to take a hard look at myself. Am I reaching for the next level? When was the last time that I really challenged my skills? Opportunities have a way of presenting themselves to you, but you have to know how to recognize them. Mine came when I witnessed this athlete’s drive and determination. The opportunity to improve my own game and never settle for less.
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