All I ever wanted really, and continue to want out of life, is

The words of Jackie Joyner-Kersee, champion of the heptathlon and long jump, resound with the wisdom of one who has endured trials and triumphed: “All I ever wanted really, and continue to want out of life, is to give 100 percent to whatever I’m doing and to be committed to whatever I’m doing and then let the results speak for themselves. Also to never take myself or people for granted and always be thankful and grateful to the people who helped me.” These words are not merely the creed of an athlete, but the anthem of a life lived with integrity, humility, and gratitude.

To give 100 percent is to empty the vessel of self into the work before you, holding nothing back. The ancients called this arete—excellence of the soul, the pursuit of virtue in all endeavors. Such a path does not measure itself only by medals or applause but by the fire of effort, the purity of commitment. Jackie teaches us that true victory is not in trophies but in knowing one has given all. The results, whether they crown us or not, will carry their own voice. They are but echoes of the deeper reality—that we dared to give our whole selves to the task.

Her words also bear a deeper humility: to never take oneself or others for granted. Pride blinds the heart, but gratitude opens it. The path to greatness is never walked alone. Behind every triumph stand coaches, mentors, family, and even rivals, who push us beyond what we thought possible. To be grateful is to remember that no achievement is the fruit of one hand only, but of many hands lifting together. Jackie’s wisdom reminds us that arrogance destroys legacy, but thankfulness builds one that endures.

Consider the life of Mother Teresa, who, though not an athlete, embodied the same creed. She gave her 100 percent to the poor and dying in the streets of Calcutta, with full commitment, day after day, year after year. The world took notice, not because she sought recognition, but because she let the results speak for themselves—lives saved, dignity restored, hope kindled. And she, too, was ever grateful to those who walked beside her, often declaring that her mission was only possible because of countless unseen helpers. The pattern of greatness is always the same: wholehearted effort, humility, and gratitude.

The lesson here is profound. The world is quick to measure worth in accolades, wealth, and outward success. But Jackie’s words cut through the illusion: it is not results we must pursue first, but commitment. When we pour ourselves fully into what lies before us, when we labor without holding back, the results—whether victory or loss—carry a nobility beyond numbers. And when we remember to bow our heads in thanks, we rise above the trap of entitlement and keep our hearts tender, ready to honor those who made our journey possible.

Practically, this wisdom calls each of us to a threefold discipline. First, in every task—great or small—strive to give your 100 percent. Do not live half-heartedly, for a lukewarm soul finds neither joy nor meaning. Second, stand firm in commitment. Do not abandon your path when storms rise, for storms refine the spirit as much as victories do. Third, cultivate daily gratitude. Speak “thank you” to those who labor with you, write words of appreciation, remember the sacrifices others made for your success. In this way, your life will shine not only with achievement but with character.

Thus, the teaching of Jackie Joyner-Kersee stands as a torch for future generations: give wholly, commit steadfastly, and be ever thankful. For in such a life, the results will speak loudly, not only of what you have done, but of who you have become. And that voice, carried on the winds of time, will outlast medals, applause, and records—it will echo as the song of a soul that lived with honor.