Many of us were glad to see 2020 come to an end. There was so much loss, uncertainty,
isolation, change, and worry with all that we went through in 2020. I was thankful for
the opportunity to slow down, reflect on what mattered most in life, and spend more
time with my immediate family last year. But I was also excited about putting 2020 behind
us and starting a new year in 2021!
I know many others felt the same. There is something about putting hard times behind
you and looking toward what could potentially lie ahead. There are new dreams and new
visions in my heart after deciding how I really want to spend my time going forward. I made
some amazing connections last year, and I will continue to glean from the wisdom of some
new mentors in my life. In the Olympics, the best celebration that meant the most to me
was in the 2000 Games after losing 3 games in a row. Our backs were against the wall,
our Olympic dreams of winning gold were on the line. It wasn’t looking good for us. But
each day and every game, each inning and every pitch, was a chance to turn things around.
And we did just that! We entered the medal round in 4th place, and we finished on top of
the Gold Medal podium. True champions learn from their mistakes. Winners in life will take
the hard stuff and find a way to use it to bring a positive change. And that is what I intend to
do in 2021. I am grateful for family, health, friends, my faith, and every single opportunity I get
to inspire people of all ages and from all walks of life! Make today great. You don’t need the
attention from others. Just do what you know matters most to you and you will be successful.