I've come to learn that a lot of people think the world owes them something. Not the entire world (I bet those people exist too) because that would be too funny. But let's narrow the subject field down, let's say athletes. Athletes use these words like 'deserve' which basically means 'I'm better then my competition so this should be mine.' Which is quite demeaning actually. Let's continue though.
Athletes in the US always gripe about funding problems. Usually an argument comes up with if country (whatever country supports its athletes but is not comparable to the United States) can support its athletes the US should be able to. My biggest argument is go move then. To be honest, the country we live in is pretty great compared to a lot of other countries, even ones that support their athletes so if you want to sacrifice everything you do have in this country for a little support go right ahead, good luck.
Next, hard work goes a long way. Those that complain they NEED funding don't, plain and simple. They want funding but they don't need it. Those that NEED something find other ways to obtain it. Saying I need funding because it might affect my training is obsolete. If you NEED something, like money, you go out and make it plain and simple. Most athletes are the laziest SOB's out there. I don't mind saying it. Just because you work hard at a practice doesn't excuse you from working hard in life. Sport is a choice, regardless of how many people tell you it's their life, it's a choice. At least in this country. Skating is my life, but I support that lifestyle.
Sacrifice. This is a good one, sacrifice to athletes means living away from friends and family, putting off school, working hard at practice, and my favorite training through a injury. Those aren't real sacrifices. Athletes NEED something (like funding) so they don't have to make sacrifices, so they can train and then relax the rest of their days, so they can get 8-10 hours of sleep every night. So they can maintain a lifestyle.
If you want something in life work for it, you might have to make sacrifices, and you might fall short in the long run. But you will never need to look back, and IF, if you succeed there is no greater satisfaction then being solely responsible for your success.
