Are You Reaching Your Level of Excellence?

[Nanette Buchanan]

Happy Sunday........ It's only natural for me to be excited watching the 2012 Olympics.....especially the Track and Field competition. I learned so many valuable life lessons being a competitor since the age of 12. As a member of the Cen
tral Jersey Track Club, competing in AAU and National competition, running as a top competitor during my years at Arts High School, and continuing in my college years at Rutgers University, I know all to well that winning is the ultimate but training and competing is where you build your character and learn your weaknesses and strengths. I went on to coach the Newark Y Track Club for ( ) years...LOL Working with over 300 youth who went on to become positive adults most of whom continued their talents becoming coaches.

Today, watching Oscar Pistoris, I saw the efforts of not only athletes but those who have been told, "You can do the impossible." This double amputee competed in the 400m trials and has qualified to move to the next round as he placed 2nd in his heat. So what was the big deal? He trained, he worked hard.....but this is not the Special Olympics where his competitors have some of the same disadvantages as he does.....no this is the 2012 Olympics and his competitors don't have any physical disabilities.

The lessons I have learned just in the few days of competition.....Gabby, Pistoris, and the other stories that have been highlighted resounded the voices of my coaches. You can accomplish anything......the obstacles are only as big as you make them. To overcome the doubts and fears of others, to rise to the level of excellence that deflates the negative cloud that lurk within the whispers.........is what they have done. Who stops those who pursue without a thought of limitations, who pursue just because, who pursue to motivate, encourage, inspire not only themselves but others.

I say Congratulations to our Olympians!!!! Happy Sunday....Job well done.

http://www.cbssports.com/olympics/story/19724891/doubleamputee-pist...