When People Get What They Deserve

A Personal Thank You To Paula Findlay

Sometimes people kick you when you’re down. It happens to the best of us, and it is a defining moment for all.

The strongest spend just enough time with their cheek pressed against the cold concrete to feel that pain, so one day they can move on. Others will ignore the pain and never experience the self-awareness it brings. Still more will keep one cheek pressed against the concrete for a lifetime, never letting go.

Everyone’s story is different, but for those who have a fighting spirit, and a belief in themselves, the end result is the same … Vindication.

Professional triathlete Paula Findlay’s win at the PTO 2020 Championship at Challenge Daytona should never have been in question. She has always been a champion even when being kicked while down. The triathlon community celebrates this victory, and I for one am so grateful that she did right by herself over the years and never quit the fight.

It wasn’t Paula’s first “comeback” win, but for some reason this race was something special to watch. Many of us had tears in our eyes when that smile broke near the finish line. Her win felt like a win for all of us who have been kicked while we were down.

So thank you, Paula Findlay, for showing us what we can do if we keep fighting and believing in ourselves. 

I hope others were inspired like me, and that kids see what amazing things we can achieve when we never give up on ourselves.

Recently, Paul gave generously of her time to share her personal story with youth triathletes in the Triathlon Alberta Provincial Development Team program. My daughter heard that story, and with Paula’s  win on Sunday, she can see how adversity is not a dream crusher. When you stand up for your true potential and keep fighting, the world is your oyster.