Michael Phelps, the aquatic wonder who took eight gold medals at the Bejing Summer Olympics was photographed smoking marijuana and the photos were published in a British tabloid.
This icon of sports adulated by millions of fans around the world wasn’t satisfied with Olympic greatness, fame and fortune. The euphoria wasn’t enough. He needed to be just a little higher.
At stake is $100 million in endorsements and his reputation. His infamy is literally gone in smoke.
Contrast that with the story of American sprinter Shawn Crawford who gave up his silver medal to Netherlands Antilles sprinter Churandy Martina, who initially had won the medal but was disqualifed for a lane violation.
As Every Square Inch points out, “he didn’t have to do it, no one coerced him, no one would think less of him if he kept the medal.” I clutch the things that I have ‘earned’ with such fervor. I want them. I need them. They are the spoils of victory. And to give them away? But I know I must.
Two Olympians — two stories of faded glory. Because of one’s cocky pride, it was stripped away. Another, out of humility, willingly gave it away.
Who’s the better man?
The lesson for all of us is clear. Be careful of fame. Be cautious of glory. Be mindful of pride
“For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.”
It is far better to give away all that you have worked so hard for, rather than be swallowed up in the clutches of destruction.
What’s your take on success? How tightly do you clutch your medal? Comment here.
Read all past issues at http://www.patheos.com/blogs/davidrupert
Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In