A heartfelt reflection from a student writer at the Her Campus chapter of SLU reveals the complex feelings surrounding dreams and personal achievements, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics. As the excitement builds for the games, set to take place in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy from February 6 to February 22, the writer expresses a longing for the grace and artistry of Olympic figure skaters, despite not being an athlete themselves.
The writer readily admits a lack of experience in sports, having not played in a competitive setting for years. Yet, the allure of figure skating captivates her, as she admires the breathtaking performances that seamlessly blend athleticism and artistic expression. She finds herself enchanted by past Olympians, unable to resist watching their routines that evoke profound emotion and beauty.
Although she acknowledges her limitations—including her inability to execute complex moves like a backflip on ice—she also understands that not being an Olympic gold medalist does not diminish her accomplishments. The writer reflects on broader definitions of success, noting her achievements as a published writer, a teacher who has positively impacted others, and an impending college graduate. While she may not possess an Olympic medal, she affirms that personal greatness can manifest in many forms.
This perspective serves as a reminder that success is not solely rooted in traditional accolades like gold medals. The writer’s journey illustrates the importance of recognizing and valuing one’s unique contributions to the world, even when they do not align with conventional measures of achievement. Aspiring to greatness can take various paths, highlighting the beauty found in individual experiences and accomplishments. The sentiment encourages readers to embrace their own journeys and acknowledge that success comes in many different shapes and sizes.