from 2021. The wisdom of Simone Bile’s decision stands the test of time:

“This above all: to thine own self be true.” ~ Polonius in Hamlet

Simone Biles’ accomplishments have been breathtaking, gravity defying, and frankly, beyond comprehension. As a representative of the United States, she has amazed, entertained, and inspired us year after year.

Because of Simone Biles’ precision, it is easy to forget that what she is doing is incredibly dangerous. Every aspect of her body and mind need to be in perfect sync. If that alignment is disrupted, the results could be disastrous: a permanent disability, paralysis, even death. Simone Biles decision to withdraw was a decision to respect herself and the limits of her body and mind.

Simone Biles was born with a gift. Through discipline and denial, she nurtured and developed that gift to the furthest extremes. USA Gymnastics partnered with her, but neither the United States nor her fans have any claim on her. And USA Gymnastics’ failure to construct a safe boundary between the organization and the athlete’s body further underscores this truth. Simone Biles is sovereign over her mind and body, and she owes us nothing.

Could one call Simone Biles a quitter? Well, sure. She’s just like anyone who has been brave enough to draw a line in the sand and say, “Enough. I choose myself: my health, my sanity, my safety, my life above all.”

To quit, to stop, to regroup, or to walk away from something that does not feel right or is no longer in one’s best interest takes superhuman courage. Abusers, critics, bosses, lovers, and fans demand the relationship, the service, the entertainment, the status quo. It’s not easy to walk through the storm of criticism and gossip that follows in the wake of these kinds of decisions.

Simone Biles stepped apart from others’ expectations and made a life positive decision for herself.

I didn’t think Simone Biles could be any stronger, any braver, any more admirable. This week she showed America a new dimension of her strength. Gymnastic feats bear her name; here’s a new one for the dictionary.

Simbile (noun):

a: A type of decision that is based on a keen understanding of the relationship between one’s mind and body.

b: A person who stays true to themselves, despite great pressure to prioritize other’s wants and needs over their own.