Strength.

What a powerful word in so many contexts.  Today, I was reminded once again of the power of strength we have in our minds, body and soul as we read a biography of Sabriye Tenberken and then shared stories of incredibly strong people we know or have read about with each other.  I shared the  story of an amazing lady who has been an example to the world of the power of strength – both mentally, physically, spiritually – and what it means to push yourself toward a goal after life has given you a physical challenge that many in the world will never have before them.  She exemplifies the mantra that my daughter’s high school swim coach told her swimmers when they set new goals for themselves or facing an incredible challenge in sport or in life… “you have more in you than you think, tell yourself, just keep going”.

The story of Sabriye, the story of Ben Underwood (a student shared with me today) and the story I shared sparked an amazing conversation with students of the strength we all have within us and the power we have to overcome some of life’s most challenging moments.

I am honored to personally know this individual whose story I shared with students – she is an inspiration to me and continues to set and conquer incredible, amazing goals. She is a champion in the truest sense and is currently sharing her own story via her column/blog for Runner’s World.

Another inspiring and strong individual…another champion…Kid President.

Thank you to the everyday champions who walk among us…big or small, young or old….thank you.