Inspiration of Olympic proportions

The Olympics have been full of inspiration: from female athletes from EVERY country,  to the beautiful images of London, the amazing athletes (including the cute male swimmers), Gabby Douglas and Missy Franklin's radiant smiles, and the idea that NOTHING is impossible if you set your mind to it.   However, track and field star Shelley Ann Fraser-Pryce from Jamaica takes the cake.

Growing up in Kingston, Jamaica Shelly-Ann's mother protected her from the dangers most young girls in her town would face, including advances from men.  As a teenager her sprinting talents earned her respect that helped keep her safe.  Her mother put a strong focus on education but, she could not afford to continue her schooling until after winning gold in the 100 meter at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.  Now she is attending The University of Technology in Kingston, majoring adolescent development.  When she graduates in November she will be the first person in her family to earn a degree.  Again, Shelly-Ann took home the gold on Saturday in the 100 meter! 

In her own words, "There are cases where persons in my own community would actually tell me I would never amount to anything.  And today I stand and every day I look in my mirror and say 'well I guess you were wrong and I am right!'"     

Shelly-Ann's story and her mother's ferocity should serve as an inspiration to us all as well as I reminder of how important it is to keep adolescent girls safe and in school in order to help them achieve their goals.  Because, anything is possible if you set your mind to it, no matter where you are from or how you grew-up!   

This is a great video from NBC on Shelly-Ann's story!  She certainly has amazing energy and great smile to go along with it! 

xo, Megan and Jess