Sunday, February 12, 2006

Michelle is out...



I learned that Michelle Kwan has withdrawn from the Olympics. I feel a pang of sympathy. Her struggle has been so long and hard. I admire Kwan's dedication to a sport that has eaten her childhood and caused her body tremendous physical pain. I hope she has no regrets for a decision made at a very young age to pursue an obsession with perfection in a sport that is both art and athleticism.


What a woman of character Michelle is, to know that hanging on to the slot would be wrong in the face of her re-injury. I expect some more selfish skaters would have have tried and flailed and failed rather than give up the slot or might have waited until the last minute thinking to recover and thus their replacement would have struggled to compete with little notice. Michelle, though, is giving up the slot with plenty of notice for Emily. I wish there was a gold medal for character and perseverance. Those qualities will help Kwan in all of her future endeavors. Fair skies and following seas, Michelle.

1 comment:

Robin said...

I would love to go there and see everything about her! I'm so jealous. ;o)