What’s in a role model?
One who uses media coverage not to boast. But as a medium to inspire girls and boys to conquer their own adversities? It is all a matter of balance.
Simone Biles, now considered the greatest American gymnast of all time, is making history again. But, she still presents herself as an approachable 22- year-old who has faced hard times and conquered them.
Ms. Biles was raised by her grandparents as her mom suffered from substance abuse. Ms. Biles still calls her grandmother “Mom,” explaining to CNN that “She (Mom) encourages me and never lets me feel down about something for too long.” Of course, encouragement means putting courage and heart into it. And the talented gymnast is proving to her followers that dreams really do come true.
In the recent United States Championships, Ms. Biles took gymnastics to whole a new level again on the balance beam with a double-double dismount and floor routine with a double back flip with three twists. With 25 medals including ones from the World Championship and 18 gold medals from the Olympics, Ms. Biles continues to strive for excellence. As she explains to the New York Times: “I feel like you should never settle just because you are winning or you are at the top. You should always push yourself.”
Her impressive victory continues to also serve as an example to young gymnasts: “I think it inspires a lot of the little girls,” she told the The Hollywood Reporter, “to go out to the gym and train harder.”