It’s Not the Medal — It’s the Win Even When You Lose

The Olympics have drawn to a close, and our U.S.A. teams made us proud! It’s a moment of pride for our nation — congratulations to all the winners! But let’s not forget, the Olympic spirit isn’t just about winning medals. It’s about the heart, soul, and unyielding determination that every athlete pours into their craft, regardless of the outcome.

A few weeks ago I shared the inspiring journey of a young woman from our church, a devoted follower of Christ, and an Olympic diver, Alison Gibson. For over 15 years, Alison has been mastering the art of springboard diving, always with a flawless record of safety. But this year, things took an unexpected turn.

Our dear friend and Lamplighters Class teacher, Zack Dawes, beautifully captured what happened next. He wrote:

“Our friend, fellow believer, world-class athlete, and two-time Olympian began her quest for a medal this morning (August 7th) with a difficult two and a half reverse somersault on her first dive.

Unfortunately, her feet clipped the diving board, resulting in an awkward fall into the pool. This would rattle anyone — especially someone who has trained so long and hard.

But Alison chose to keep going. Despite the bruises and cuts, she continued to dive three more times knowing that her chances of winning a medal were slim.

I, like many of you, hurt for Alison. This had to be one of the most difficult and disappointing days of her life. She is someone with the rare combination of enormous talent, faith, humility, and concern for others. In fact, she has used the Olympic experience not just for herself, but to build and raise support for children in Kenya through Missions of Hope.

When interviewed after the disappointment of the diving prelims, Alison’s response was above and beyond: ‘I hope anyone watching was able to see what it looks like to get up and keep going, even when things don’t go the way you want them to.’ She says this with the conviction and power of Jesus Christ.

I cannot wait to see what God has in store for Alison and the Gibson family. Alison will not bring home a gold medal this time, but she will return home with the heart of a champion. She is the best of the best.”

Alison’s journey is a testament to the fact that our worth is not defined by a single moment of success or failure. As Alison shared on Instagram, “I am who I am because of the journey it took to get here. And I will not let the shame and pain of this moment define me and my worth.”

What a powerful reminder that even in what some might see as an “embarrassing failure,” there is a victory in perseverance, in getting up and trying again. Alison’s story isn’t just her own — it’s a message to all of us: our lives are not measured by our wins or losses, but by our determination to never give up.

Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Alison’s story is a living testament to that promise.