20/03/2023
Do you recall the inspiring story of Kenyan runner Abel Mutai, who, just a few feet away from the finish line, mistakenly believed he had completed the race? It was at that moment that Spanish runner Ivan Fernandez, who was close behind, recognized the situation. He began shouting to Mutai, urging him to keep running, but their language barrier hindered communication. Without hesitation, Fernandez pushed Mutai forward, ensuring his victory.
When questioned about his selfless act, Ivan Fernandez responded, "My dream is to create a community where we support and push each other towards success." The journalist pressed further, asking why Ivan allowed Mutai to win instead of seizing the opportunity himself. Fernandez answered, "I didn't allow him to win; he was destined to win. The race belonged to him."
Persisting, the journalist asked, "But couldn't you have won?" Ivan's reply was profound, "What merit would there be in my victory? What honor would that medal hold? What would my mother think of such a victory?"
This story reminds us of the values we impart to future generations. What lessons are we teaching our children? Let us not teach them to seek victory through deceit or dishonest means. Instead, let us instill in them the beauty of extending a helping hand, for it is through honesty and ethics that true victories are achieved.
May we cherish and pass on these values that uplift humanity and demonstrate the true essence of triumph.
(C) Coral Finemanf a helping hand because honesty and ethics are what truly lead to victory!
(C) Coral Fineman