http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9imn3eCDyOU
There were a few things that I found really inspiring about this post. The first thing was the Canadian coach chose to give the Russian skier a new ski when he broke his own. It is often easier to stand back with the crowd and do nothing to solve a problem, even when we have the ability to help. Once the skier broke his ski, no one stepped up to help him. I would guess that Canada wasn't the only team to bring an extra ski, so it's likely that some of the other teams could have helped as well, but chose not to. I personally find that sometimes making the decision to stand out and do something is more difficult than the act of helping itself. Seeing this video encourages me to step out of my comfort zone more to help others in need.
Another thing that stood out was the fact that the Canadian coach was helping out his competition. Although Justin's aid didn't change the outcome of the race, it is still great to see that the fierce competitive spirit didn't get in the way of true sportsmanship. Alhtough competition is fun and being competitive isn't a bad thing, sometimes people can get a bit carried away and let it overshadow the true spirit of the game.
The final thing that I found inspiring about this video was when the Russian skier kept going after he broke his ski. A lot of people might say "Of course he kept going, he's an athlete and an Olympian." While this may be true, I think that it takes a lot of humility, courage and again good sportsmanship to finish with the attitude that he did. Especially since they were in his home country, it had to be embarassing and disappointing when his ski broke. When he fell a second time, he could have walked to the finish line or he could have just left the course. The skier chose to be persistant and to finish his race in spite of his misfortune, putting on a brave face and smiling with a great attitude. He inspires me to have a great attitude and to smile no matter what is going on around you because while it may not change the circumstances of the situation, it pays off personally and helps you to get through it.
Talissa - you often remind me of the Russian skier. No matter whether you are overwhelmed or working through a process in class or in extra curriculars, you still come to class ready and willing to work and try your best. This was true in grade 8 and it is true now (although sometimes I think you hide it a little better than in grade 8) and I get inspired by students like you who observe,notice the little things, as well as the big ones, reflect and take something from the experience. Thank you for this opening post to PDD! Happy to have you in the class.
ReplyDeleteGreat post Talissa!
ReplyDeleteI thoroughly agree with your points on your reflection. I also believe that it is hard for individuals to purposely get out of their way to help another individual, especially when the helper receives no benefits afterwards. I do think it takes a lot of courage and guts to do what the Canadian coach did.
I want to emphasize more on the Russian skier's attitude towards the race. I strongly support your point and I believe it does take a lot of courage and determination to tackle challenges. However, it is easier said than done. I mean, what drive us to move forward when times are rough? What makes us keep going when the obstacle is too difficult to overcome? I think it is important to note that these are the questions that each individual needs to find out about themselves in order for them to be like the Russian skier. What is our why to relentlessly strive for our goal?
Again, great post Talissa!