When I was growing up, there were very few women athletes. I remember watching Olga Corbett, but Peggy Fleming and Janet Lynn were my role models. I never dreamt that I could be at that level. I remember thinking they seemed so elegant and regal and powerful and feminine.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the impactful role of female athletes as role models and the aspirational feelings they evoked.
Dorothy Hamill's reflection on her childhood highlights the scarcity of female athletes during her formative years and how she admired figures like Olga Corbett, Peggy Fleming, and Janet Lynn. These women embodied strength, elegance, and femininity, inspiring Hamill to aspire to greatness in sports, despite the challenges. This quote emphasizes the importance of representation and the profound effect that role models can have on young individuals, particularly in fields where diversity is lacking.
In practice
During a speech at a women's sports event to inspire young athletes.
Where did you get the idea you aren't allowed to petition the universe with prayer? You are part of this universe, Liz. You're a constituent--you have every entitlement to participate in the actions of the universe, and to let your feelings be known. So, put your opinion out there. Make your case. Believe me--it will at least be taken into consideration.
How long will this last, this delicious feeling of being alive, of having penetrated the veil which hides beauty and the wonders of celestial vistas? It doesn't matter, as there can be nothing but gratitude for even a glimpse of what exists for those who can become open to it.
I believe we have all been created for greater things than we can comprehend. The times call for great things, but great things in the noblest and most redemptive sense are predicted upon tolerance, love, respect, understanding, dignity, prayer, God.
Prayer is the way to destroy all fear. It is the way to banish sorrow, the way to light a torch of hope. It is the revolution that rewrites the scenario of our destiny.
Long live the rose that grew from the concrete when no one else ever cared!
I've never been a person that has had fear of, like, 'Oh, I don't want to be the poster child for all black lesbian women.' I don't know. I want to be someone in the public eye that they can be proud of.
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