Inspired

Being inspired by someone is a fascinating phenomenon. It might take quite a bit of time to realize that a certain person has changed your outlook on the world. One of the beauties of snowboarding, is that there are many inspiring characters to learn from. Whether it is through their influencing style, skill-level, personality or usually a combination of these characteristics.

Bibian Mentel certainly has combination of all those characteristics. Her contribution to Para- snowboarding has been enormous - she actually put it on the map! A few years ago I followed her run up to the Paralympics in Sochi for a school assignment. She is truly inspiring in many ways. I don’t think I have ever met someone with an equal amount of passion, love and appreciation for our so-called sport.

One of the things I observed was the great mentality that all athletes in the Paralympic snowboard team had. They all seemed very upbeat and stoked about life. It crossed my mind that everyone in that team seemed more appreciative, happy and motivated than I had ever been in my life at the time. To tell you the truth - I felt a bit spoiled. Perhaps because I actually was and probably am.

The main thing that I learned from hanging out with the Dutch Paralympic snowboard team is the possibility for humans to smile in the face of adversity. People that have gone through a lot and have come out the other end with a smile are exactly the people that have created the strongest personalities. I also think that Bibian’s enthusiasm had something to do with the great overall spirit in the group – she is a true leader.

The list of adversity that Bibian has faced is enough for multiple life-times. I cannot imagine what it would be like to lose my leg to cancer - and then having the disease return multiple times in my life. Bibian knows this all too well. Not long ago she was fighting for her life. On the bright-side, this continuous battle for survival has made her one tough cookie. This recently became apparent once again after winning TWO GOLD MEDALS in the still ongoing Paralympics. What an incredible achievement!

Life can be brutal, chaotic and far from pleasant at times. What we have to realize is that those moments are also an opportunity to show our true self. This is why Bibian is so inspiring. The ripples of positivism that she sends out is exactly what we need in the world. Congratulations to Bibian and the whole Dutch Paralympic team for your performance. You guys are true legends!