The Heights of Human Potential
Given by Lloyd Newell

October 24, 2004

Nearly all of us, young and old, have a desire to do our best.  A powerful allure draws us to scale the heights of human potential.  We may hear the call of lofty goals or simply desire to make the most of our everyday circumstances.  Regardless of our target, it seems natural to aim high.

In this human endeavor, some work harder and longer and rise above obstacles.  They reach the highest level of accomplishment.  One of these is Yang Yang of China.

Born in humble circumstances, Yang Yang began ice-skating at age eight.  For nearly two decades she honed her skills as a speed skater and raced in local, then national, and, finally, international competitions.  Her disciplined practice resulted in some competitive triumphs – and disappointments.  In the 1998 Olympic Winter Games, though she set a world record in a preliminary race, Yang Yang narrowly lost in the final.  Olympic gold, the ultimate prize, eluded her.

But perseverance paid off for this gifted athlete.  At the 2002 Winter Games, held in Salt Lake City, Yang Yang was victorious in two events and joyously received the first ever Winter Olympic gold medals for China.  She and her entire nation celebrated not only this singular success but also Yang Yang’s determined effort for so many years to do her best.

Our personal objectives may not have the notoriety of an Olympic race, but each of us will be called upon to overcome obstacles of various kinds in order to fulfill our life’s promise.  Overcoming physical, emotional, and relationship challenges can be even more daunting than world-class athletic achievement.  And so we run the race of life and climb the mountains of mortality and do the best we can, in spite of setbacks and almost overwhelming odds.  As did Yang Yang, the Olympic champion, we try and try again and give it our all every day of our lives.