The countdown is on. In just a few days, thousands of athletes and spectators from around the world will gather in Vancouver, British Columbia to participate in the winter Olympics 2010. Over the next couple weeks, hopes will be fulfilled, dreams will be inspired, and unfortunately talents will fall short. But whatever may transpire in Vancouver, one thing is certain; athletes and spectators will be united in a single quest, most commonly known as “going for the gold”.
What makes the gold medal so desirable? Does the desire exist because the medal is made from expensive metal? Or is the desirability found in the medal’s undeniable prestige and superiority? I would venture to guess that value, prestige, and superiority play a part in the medal’s irresistibleness. However, out of all the athletes represented, only a few will take the highest platform, only a few will join in the singing of their national anthem, and only a few will end their quest with a gold medal. For the others, the gold medal will be nothing more than a lost hope.
I will never have a gold medal. I don’t plan skiing the powdered slopes in perfect formation; I will never land a triple-lutz with grace, and I don’t see myself breaking any speed records in skates. I am physically not able to perform any of these events. A wheelchair is not conducive to snow and ice, and it hardly does anything with precision and excellence. Hence, the quest for a gold medal is not in my future. But the “gold” in my life isn’t found in a gleaming medal; it is found in my family, friends, and faith.I didn’t have to beat the clock or get a perfect score to receive my gold.
My gold was a gift, one specifically chosen for me. Is my gold valuable? No, it’s priceless! Does my gold bring prestige and superiority? No, it brings happiness and support. I know my gold isn’t exactly lustrous, but it shines brightly for me every day. It sparkles when mom gets me up with a smile; it dazzles when my friends treat me like anyone else; it twinkles when my faith pulls me through the day. It’s the only gold I need.
I will not be going for the gold in Vancouver or anywhere for that matter. But that is okay because my “gold” keeps me going!
