Since sharing Wilma Rudolph’s amazing story (See Can Do!), I’ve had her on my mind. so I’ve gathered some of her words of wisdom to inspire and embolden us:

“I believe in me more than anything in this world.”

“It doesn’t matter what you’re trying to accomplish. It’s all a matter of discipline.”

“I ran and ran and ran every day, and I acquired this sense of determination, this sense of spirit that I would never, never give up, no matter what else happened.”

“I loved the feeling of freedom in running, the fresh air, the feeling that the only person I’m competing with is me… When I ran, I felt like a butterfly that was free.

“When the sun is shining I can do anything; no mountain is too high, no trouble too difficult to overcome.”

“Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us.”

“Winning is great, sure, but if you are really going to do something in life, the secret is learning how to lose. Nobody goes undefeated all the time. If you can pick up after a crushing defeat, and go on to win again, you are going to be a champion someday.”

“No matter what accomplishments you make, somebody helps you.”

“Sometimes it takes years to really grasp what has happened to your life.”

“The triumph can’t be had without the struggle.”

“I don’t know why I run so fast. I just run.”

What strength! What joy in her gifts! What drive and determination! Energized by Wilma, may we bring the spirit of her wisdom and will to the page today as we all write on!