Bronzed

The Olympics throw in many stories which we enjoy.  There is something very heartwarming amid the elitism of sport - and Sophie Hitchon has helped to provide it here.  Looking at her body language following her third place in the women's hammer you would assume that she has won gold.  Especially if you compare it with the bitter disappointment on the faces of some silver medalists - what, after all, is second place to an elite sportsman or woman?

It turns out that Sophie is excited beyond all expectations.  She has done her best - more than her best - and on her final throw.  Just as the A level results appear this seems to be a lesson worth embracing.  Of course, on the face of it, some will have their A*s and their place at an elite institution and drippingly good earning prospects.  

As a Pastor I have, every year almost, seen young people pass or fail exams.  For parents especially bronze seems useless (Sophie's family were not even in Rio!).  But, in the words of the old Scout Hymn, we are to be the best that we can be.  That's all.

The Lord told us that we will not all have the same number of talents.  We do have the same responsibility to use them at our best and in that is life's true reward.