As the Tokyo Olympics winds down, much attention has been given to Simone Biles. Going into these games, she had a combined total of 30 Olympic and World Championship medals, is the most decorated American gymnast, and is regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time—all at the tender age of 24.
While all of that is impressive, what she did in these games is even more impressive to me: she stepped back to take care of herself, showing true strength.
She chose to leave the team during these games and stop competing.
True strength is being able to say you can’t do something. True strength is working your whole life, dedicating yourself entirely, and being able to step back and cheer on your teammates. True strength is feeling the weight of a country on your shoulders, and being able to see clearly that it’s not your duty to carry it if it will break you.
True strength is being able to see through the oppressive cloud of other people’s expectations and doing what your body, mind, and soul are saying you need to do.
If Simone Biles convinces even one person watching her that it’s ok to say, “I can’t,” and prioritize their mental health, that will be more valuable to this country than any gold medals she could earn.
We have more than enough gold medals.
We need more true strength.
As a pastor of a W.I.S.E. congregation for mental wellness, I salute her.
Shalom, Paul
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Justice Is Not for Just Us at The Palms
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Rejected Olympic sports from my mind…
- Underwater tug-of-war
- Watermelon seed spitting contest
- Grocery cart 400m hurdles
- Communion chugging
- Rhythmic corn hole
- Cow pie toss
- Mixed doubles three-legged decathlon
- Pig calling
- Flaming Limbo
- Pufferfish juggling
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A Palm Reader's Look into the Future
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Interested in singing in a choir or a small ensemble? Contact Pastor Jim! In Ah-gust, we’ll have an Ah-semble with all who are interested. Rehearsals will be Sundays at 9:00 a.m. in the Music Room.
This Sunday, August 8, I will be preaching part two of a two-part sermon. This Sunday, “What to Say.” What should we say to bring Jesus into the conversation?
Following CDC guidelines, we will be practicing appropriate holy distance between people. We recommend that you wear a mask, as well.
 It’s still not too late to register for our retreat which is September 7-9. The theme is Antiracism Training. Cost is $295 (double occupancy). Scholarships are available. Check the church website or call the church office for more information.
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Click the image to watch many, um, unusual events...
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