I would love to win a bronze medal in an esoteric, little-known area. Less well known than Solo synchronized swimming or Croquet (both of which were in the Olympics). Something like joyful dog-walking, or daydreaming while kayaking, or perhaps even word-smithing on bike trails.
While these are inspirational experiences that fill my heart, they do not entail the unwavering commitment required for any Olympic competition, and hence are viewed as inconsequential. Yet it is often these “inconsequential” activities that give our lives meaning, that guide our decisions, and that help us embrace an unknown future.
Unlike Olympians, I do not crave gold, to be seen as the best in my area. Rather, I would blissfully watch others bask in the glory and fame, while quietly embracing my own experiences. Winning silver drives someone to strive for gold. And winning gold pushes someone to stay at the top. Bronze is the award that says “You are great just as you are,” removing the pressure of always demonstrating improvement or growth in one direction.
I imagine standing on the bronze podium, with all eyes on the gold and silver winners, completely content, wondering what new pathway I will explore without any need to excel. And maybe others will be inspired to follow their own esoteric dreams, leaving behind the need to succeed. Gold and silver bring fame and glory, but winning bronze brings confidence and freedom.