Olympic Athletes, Holy Saints, and You

The Olympic Games begin in just a few days, and I’m so excited! I know not everyone shares my enthusiasm, and I certainly understand some of the recent issues that have fueled those feelings. But to me, it’s always been about the athletes and their incredible stories.

Ever since I was a little girl, when the Olympic Games began, I’d be glued to the television watching the amazing athletes from around the world who had worked so hard to excel at their sports. The hours and dedication it took for them to reach that excellence were always awe-inspiring. With that in mind, I guess it shouldn’t be a surprise that my first novel, The Perfect Blindside, was about an Olympic athlete.

While most of us will never achieve that level of accomplishment, we are all called to excel at our own talents. God gave us each unique interests and gifts that we are to use to ultimately lead others to Him. That might seem like an overwhelming task. And I would even venture to guess that many of the “supreme athletes” of the Catholic Church—the saints—didn’t feel they were remarkable or unique. But, despite any misgivings, they all had a devotion to God and used their gifts to lead others to Christ.

Just like the holy saints and those Olympic athletes, we need to train and develop our skills so that we can also give glory to God. Maybe you could help a classmate understand a subject matter or do something thoughtful for a family member or neighbor. Could you give the gift of time by volunteering or simply listening to a friend who’s going through a difficult time? How about sharing your interests or talents at your local parish?

Whether through grand acts or simple gestures, we’re all called to live our lives for Christ. So, as you watch the Olympic Games over the next few weeks, take a few moments to think about your talents and how you can use them to make a difference.

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About the author: Leslea Wahl enjoys using her love of writing to create faith-based novels to inspire others.  Her newest adventure, The Ultimate Blindside, is now available.

Book summary: When their sleepy Colorado town is overrun by a Hollywood film crew, Jake and Sophie find their private lives exposed for all the world to see. Meanwhile, a hacked computer, mysterious strangers, and unwanted past acquaintances threaten to ruin all that the teens hold dear. In this tale of twists and turns, who can be trusted?

Join snowboarding superstar Jake and aspiring journalist Sophie as their lives once again spin out of control in this third Blindside adventure.