Gabrielle Douglas and Liang Chow: Thank You!!

Duo's Amazing Accomplishment Sends a Strong Message to U.S./China Leaders and Inner City Youth

While America celebrates the phenomenal victory of the U.S. Women's Gymnastics team and the historic achievement of Gabrielle Douglas, I believe it is crucially important that the people of America and China, including their political leaders and other elected officials, take a very close look at the hidden message that was broadcast to millions via NBC Sports. 

Over the last several years, the United States and China have viciously attacked each other over issues like trade and human rights. It's reached a point where the situation between the two world powers has become extremely tense and could get worse. As I watched Gabrielle Douglas and Liang Chow embrace after every event Douglas won, I could not help but think about the political and social symbolism associated with their display of affection, love and support. 

As the applause rained down in the arena, and tears of joy fell from the faces of Douglas, her family, her teammates, and American spectators in the arena and back home in America, I said to myself, "This is what dedication, love, respect, support, and teamwork are all about. If U.S. and Chinese leaders would place greater emphasis on these vital aspects of our existence, the U.S., China, and the world would accomplish great things." 

Finally, I decided to post this statement to convey a powerful message to young people of color in poverty-stricken areas of the United States who think that joining gangs, selling drugs, and "wilding out" to get ahead are their only option. I want all of them to watch the video and realize that Gabriell Douglas, a 16-year-old from Virginia Beach, wasn't handed the gold medal. She trained for four years or more and dedicated herself to accomplishing her dream. Without question, she suffered aches, pains and maybe a few injuries along the way. However, she displayed the heart of a champion and "kept it moving", thanks to the love and support of her mother, extended family, Liang Chow, her Olympic teammates, and her true friends. 

I challenge all young people of color in America, particularly those who are seriously thinking about becoming a member of the Bloods, Crips, Latin Kings, MS-13 or other deadly gangs, to step up their game and follow the path that Douglas took. If you do, I can assure you that some form of award or praise awaits you in the future, and those who once viewed you as a bane or threat to society will embrace you as a champion that overcame all obstacles....just like Gabrielle Douglas. 

This commentary is from the heart and.....from The G-Man.    

Note - August 6, 11:00 am: This article originally contained a YouTube video summary of the Olympic events Gabrielle Douglas competed in and won, but it was removed from the site. My apologies.

Photo courtesy of http://www.facebook.com/LetsBreakthrough.