Alcides, an extraordinary athlete,
was the fastest man in the world.
Athletic: strong, muscular and powerful.

Athletes feared him,
and Alcides fed on their fear, fueling his strength.
Confidence: self-esteem, pride and passion.

Alcides mesmerized women,
and thought he was entitled to love, fortune and fame.
Arrogance: self-centered, smug and unapproachable.

Alcides attended the first Olympic Games,
a clear crowd favorite, expected to be crowned with palm branches and ribbons.
Competition: challenging, audacious and brave.

The gun signaled the start of the 100m dash,
off the starting line, Alcides looked strong, but blew his Achilles and finished last.
Failure: losing, devastating and humbling.

Alcides learned a valuable lesson:
never take anything for granted, and always, be humble.
Humility:  modesty, stillness and he was no longer the fastest man the world.