Book review - The Great Eight

I’ve been away from the blog for about a week…and what a week!  Softball playoffs, regional synchro meet, Mother’s Day, a surprise visit from The Writer…whew!  Back on track as of today…at least for now.

I realize I’m dating myself, but I remember watching the opening ceremonies of the 1980 Olympic games in Lake Placid and seeing Scott Hamilton leading the USA’s athletes and carrying the American flag.  The commentators at the time called him “little Scottie Hamilton,” and they mentioned the physical challenges/health issues that he had overcome to reach the Olympic level of figure skating. It was an inspiring story to say the least.  He won Olympic gold at the 1984 games in Sarajevo and went on to a very successful professional career.  Several years ago he wrote an autobiography that I believe did quite well.  This book, however, is more of an inspirational “if-I-can-do-it-so-can-you” type of book.

The Great Eight is how Hamilton refers to the eight suggestions he gives to readers, suggestions like “Fall, Get Up and Land Your First Jumps,” “Make Your Losses Your Wins” and “Win By Going Last.” There is nothing particularly profound or revolutionary in any of his suggestions, but learning a little more about his life is interesting.  The writing is okay, more like reading the text of a series of motivational messages than great writing.  There are grammatical mistakes, and the editing is…I’m sorry…poor, but his unending optimism is truly amazing.  It was also interesting to learn that he is a member of our fellowship of faith and was baptized at the University Church at Pepperdine soon after he learned he had a brain tumor, his wife Tracie’s faith being his inspiration.

Interestingly, considering my recent area of study, the chapter entitled “Keep the Ice Clear” deals with conflict resolution.  It is basic but practical.  My favorite quote from the entire book occurs on page 93:

I strongly believe that the only disability in life is a bad attitude.

Well said.

This is not a book that I would call a “must read,” but Scott Hamilton’s life and eternally positive attitude does make it very enjoyable.

Encourage one another,