Olympics 2012 - Letter to a Son

Dearest Usain,

I'm writing to you as a mother would, with the pride and love that comes with seeing you succeed at the thing you are best at and, passionate about. I know it has been incredibly hard work but you are blessed with an amazing gift and we are so proud of how you have taken the nation, indeed the entire world with you on this journey of a lifetime. So here are a few words of advice from a fan and, over the subsequent paragraphs I ask that you imagine me as your mom.

Picture by Ricardo Makyn - Gleaner Staff Photographer

Take care of your health, both physical and emotional; you will not always be young. So when the roar of the crowds subside and father time has has taken your speed you will need to remain, a strong and healthy man. Your history is already written and for many generations to come you will be the subject of discussions, writings and even scientific studies. Do not take your health for granted for old age can be cruel to those who failed to do the right things in their youths.

Manage your money so that you will be able to enjoy the life to which you have grown accustomed and when you make a family of your own, they too will be financially secure. Be mindful that many very wealthy persons have tasted bankruptcy because they were neither prudent nor wise with their money. Always give some away for all the right reasons, there is no shame in generosity but not every cause should be yours to support. Sometimes you'll just have to say no - don't feel guilty.

If you have not already done so, accept with humility that, you are not an ordinary citizen and be cautious with your words and actions. You cannot control what others say or write about you, but you must be certain of your own utterances. Mistakes will be made, our humanity guarantees this. You see, your reputation is as much about you as it is about who people think and say you are; much of which is beyond your control. Your character however is yours to guard and protect, never delegate that job.

Know for certain, that someone in whom you place much trust may disappoint you and it will hurt. Ask Jesus, for as you know, he was both betrayed and nailed to a cross. Do not contain your trust however, but accept that it is never enough and be sure to reinforce it with the the necessary mechanisms for the protection of that which is most important to you. When your trust is breached, be generous with your forgiveness for the burden of other people's evils is not yours to carry.

Never allow your schedule to exclude your parents; if you are too busy to spend time with them, check yourself. Carve out that time and make it non-negotiable. Never allow them to feel as if you no longer need them, even if you think or know you don't. Ask for their advice every now and then and take it sometimes for, as you're probably already noticing, there's really nothing new under the sun. That includes all this advice. Always make time for the youth; many see you as the only real evidence that they can make it. They can be somebody, they can go far.

Remain wide eyed and open minded, that's how you learn and there will be lots of lessons for you. You have travelled the world but much of it has been viewed through the prism of stadia. Your love of people and places is evident so stay alert because as the 1998 Aerosmith song goes you "don't want to miss a thing".  Soak it up, have fun, even take a few risks, but recognise when it's time to move on and go with grace when that time comes.

My son, I know this will take somewhat more than 9.63 seconds of your precious time but take your time. Read a paragraph at a time and know that I believe in you and all you are capable of. The world is your oyster right now but, in time, it will be someone else's. Be sure to carve out that place in it that does not require the roar of the crowd and the adoration of the fans for its sustenance.

You are blessed, you are loved, you are human, and the 'Earth loves you'. Love yourself, respect yourself, and keep your faith. Oh, and one more thing; when this is all over go back to school and finish your education. Do something interesting and fun, not because you have to, but just because you can.

With much love,

One of the many other Moms.