The Olympics are the great gathering of athletes from around the world. These athletes are the best of the best. They work day and night to become the top competitors in their sports.
Isaiah Jewett and Nijel Amos are two such athletes. Isaiah Jewett runs track for the United States of America and Nijel Amos runs for Botswana. Both men run in the 800m. It is a challenging run that requires stamina and great speed.
Just a few days ago, while competing in Japan, Nijel and Isaiah were running the 800m. They were near the final stretch of the run. Nijel was just behind Isaiah when he stepped on Isaiah’s heal. Both men took a tumble. There was no chance now for either of them to win. All their work, all the training, all that they had done to become an Olympic-class runner, ended as they fell to the track.
As the two runners looked at each other, Nijel said, “I’m sorry.” Isaiah Jewett wanted no part of his apology. Isaiah told him it was “OK.” and he helped Nijel to his feet. The two completed the run together, holding each other up as they crossed the finish together. It was a tremendous showing of sportsmanship.
Even in the midst of defeat, while watching a dream disappear, Isaiah and Nijel were kind to one another. It is a powerful example of how we should treat one another. We place so high an emphasis on winning and losing that we forget that treating our neighbors with kindness, respect, and caring for their well-being is far greater than any medal. During the Olympics, we often look to the medal podium as the ultimate achievement, but Nijel and Isaiah showed us the greatest image of success is treating others with respect and kindness.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
