One of the best things about the Olympics is seeing athletes from all over the world achieve their dreams. Though I don't see an Olympic medal in my future, I still feel inspired by the will of the human spirit that is exhibited by the young men and women that compete in the events. Although they gain international recognition, Olympic athletes, just like us, have to overcome adversity to be able to do what they love. They encounter coaches that won't let them compete, tournaments that are too expensive to enter, and physical injuries that keep them sidelined. However, Olympians only view these hurdles as additional reasons to train harder, work longer, and live better.
One of my favorite stories is of the 2012 Olympic's all-around women's gymnastics gold medalist Gabby Douglas, who sustained a season-ending injury in 2009 and endured financial hardship as the daughter of a single mother of four. Gabby's story is proof that, against the odds, determination is one's greatest weapon.
To read more inspiring Olympic stories from over the years, read this article by The Huffington Post: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/31/12-inspiring-olympian-athletes_n_1712180.html