I just saw a rerun of the heartbreaking race of female USA athlete Lolo Jones, and it really inspired me. At the 2008 Beijing Olympics, she was considered a favorite for the 100meter hurdles. During the race, she pulled out in first only to stumble on the 9th(of 10) hurdle, and it caused her to not medal at all. The whole world watched as she expressed her pain from such a colossal disappointment. Almost immediately after, she is quoted saying, "I hit a hurdle about twice a year where it affects my race. It's just a shame that it happened on the biggest race of my life." 
So what is she doing almost a year later? Well, she definitely didn't let that huge disappointment stop her. Lolo talks about her experience and gives inspirational advice in her upcoming book, "Clearing the Ninth Hurdle: Life Lessons Learned from Not Winning a Gold Medal". On an IPTV story about her life, she said, "I'm so thankful that I went through the hardships…so now I can appreciate my victory so much more."
Readers- Lolo is so right. How can you truly appreciate and value success if you've never experienced failure? I sincerely hope that you are still thankful Lolo. I do believe that your great victory is coming, and boy is it going to be sweet! I love her story, and I wish her the best of luck in future races. It just shows that when life gives you lemons, make lemonade….. or mabe you should just write an inspirational book. ;)
My words are up.
**Lolo's book has an expected publishing date of June 25th, 2009. If you want to find out more about Lolo Jones, you can check out her website: www.runlolorun.com
Oh that we all would be able to stand back up and start running again! Life will ALWAYS have hurdles in the way, and it takes a great deal of character and courage to get back on the track, especially overcoming the frustration and pain of perceived failure... Great post, look forward to more!
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