For a real feel good, film I highly recommend Eddie the Eagle now playing at many theaters in the Dallas Metroplex and theaters across the United States. It is a true story about a young boy from Great Britain, born Michael Edwards on December 5, 1963, who defied all odds, naysayers, and bullies. They say, it couldn't be done; and yet he became Great Britain's first Olympic Ski Jumper at the 1988 Winter Olympics.
What did others say about him before the competition?
"Heroic Failure"
"A Disgrace"
What was Eddie's personal belief?
"Always Aim High!"
"I love proving people wrong!"
"I have to do this!"
What was he praised for by the Olympic Committee?
"Representing the true spirit of an amateur
Olympic who wanted to compete
at the Best of his ability
for its own sake,
regardless of his chances
of winning."
How many people have been told they couldn't achieve success or fulfill their passion because of other opinions, such as a parent, peers, or people in authority? Instead of worrying about what other people had to say, the character in this film persevered, despite all odds against him. The most important thing in life is believing in yourself, be respectful of other people, and mind your own business without taking things or what others say about you personally. Rather than blame others, or buy into what others said, Eddie spent his time pushing himself to succeed, always trying to accomplish something he believed was true for him.
Eddie didn't just take the "High Road," he took the HIGH JUMP and landed on his feet! With professional abilities comes responsibility with knowledge and courage to conduct yourself in a professional manner, even when you don't feel you did anything wrong, but the perception by others say otherwise. Standing up for yourself, even if you embarrass yourself or others, doesn't have to end as failure. It can be a turning point, with greater respect, admiration, and may lead to an even higher climb to succeed raising the bar for others to achieve same or greater success.
©Patricia Feager 3/20/2016
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