Like much of the world, I stand in complete amazement of the force that is Simone Biles. As it stands, she is the most accomplished gymnast to date (GOAT!!!!). As a childhood competitive gymnast, watching her athletic domination year after year has been jaw-dropping, but as a woman and mother, who she is as a person has been the most prodigious part of her story for me.
This historic Olympic run has me reflecting on her journey and the lessons I want to continue to remember as I navigate parenthood conversations through the years.
Simone proves that even when you are the best, people will question your greatness. They may say that you shouldn’t be praised. They may claim that it’s favoritism. They may even change rules to “level the field.” Be great anyways. Ignore the noise and let your body of work speak for yourself. When you do address it, speak confidently about your greatness, and don’t let naysayers diminish your worth. Class and a little sass will always be a great combination.
READ: Daughters, Please Know This…
Simone has shown us that winning isn’t everything. It is okay to step away and take care of yourself. Your mental health is just as important as your goals. It may not be an easy choice. It may not be the popular choice. You may feel like you are letting others down. You may feel like you are letting yourself down. You may be bullied for it. It is still the right choice. And by making that choice, you will be stronger than ever.
Simone has championed the idea that there is room for us all to be celebrated. Throughout the competition, she cheered on competitors with genuine delight. When she made mistakes or fell short of her personal goals, it didn’t dampen her joy for others. She ensured that she made space for others to be celebrated in the media. She always had encouraging words and positive remarks when asked about opponents. Being a “girl’s girl” will always be the vibe!
Simone cautioned us that evil exists, but we don’t have to be silent. Victims don’t need to feel shame. Trauma doesn’t have to be hidden. I feel fury for the way these girls were not protected and know that their personal journeys to healing will look different, but I am thankful they found the strength to speak out to ensure their perpetrator was held accountable for his horrendous actions.
Simone reminds us that reveling in your uniqueness is the standard. As a young black woman, she looked different than most in her sport. As an adoptee, her story was different than most. People negatively comment on her hair, her marriage, and her abilities. Simone does not cower. She has been unapologetic about speaking up against the hate. She is proud of who and what she is, and she makes it abundantly clear. At her 4’8” frame, she stands taller than everyone in the room because she is confident in who she is and her worth.
I am most excited that as my daughter enters her first year of competitive gymnastics, she is not only an athlete to strive to be like in the gym, but a woman I would be happy for her to be like as she grows.
