Jeremy Abbott came down so hard on his right hip he just lay there, his music weaving on without him. But the crowd of Russians who adore skaters and know a thing or two about overcoming adversity would not abandon him.
They clapped in unison. They cheered encouragement. They sent a tidal wave of compassion across the ice aimed at the broken skater pressed against the wall. All that love, with its powerful mojo, washed over Jeremy and he stirred, got to his feet and glided forward into the hearts of the crowd. He skated the rest of his program, through the pain, like an angel in love.
When he took his final bow, the crowd stood and roared their approval. Jeremy Abbott graciously savored his Olympic moment. Who needs a medal when you have this?
Teachable Moment: Life knocks us down. Love raises us up.