Fight or Flight

This whole Simone Biles thing is bittersweet. Every human is entitled to have an off day. The admiration of the entire American population is a heavy burden.

The media, in true fashion, distorts reality. First it was the mainstream calling her a hero (a la Naomi Osaka) then the real journalists calling her a selfish coward.

Let me be clear: the events are acceptable; she is entitled to say ‘today was not my day’. It is especially disappointing as the Olympics are commencing, but we cant let that cloud our vision.

After the competition the damn media couldn’t control their appetite for drama. They just had to grill Simone Biles on her health and mental situation while the rest of the team, who had just earned their silver medals just stood there. The conversation had to be about Simone rather than taking a congratulatory tone to recognize the team on their achievement.

I hope that Simone Biles has the fortitude to show up for her other events and bring her best, which we already know to be better than the rest. Otherwise she stole a spot from another athlete who may not have measured up to Biles’ potential, but who would have given their all for their country.

Let’s be honest, the Olympic games have reminded us that anyone can win on any day of the week if they show up and leave everything on the field.