Originally poster August 8, 2008

Many people will look back on the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and remember Michael Phelps. The most decorated Olympian in history. Not only more career gold medals than anyone else alive but also the most gold medals in a single Olympic games than anyone else. However, look at his races this year. He was in 8 races, three of which were relay races. In fact, how appropriate it was to Michael Phelps' humility on the interview camera that his last race, and the one that put him past Mark Spitz as the one who has received the most gold medals in a single games, was the medley relay...he was reliant on three other swimmers to win that race. In fact, a review of the video would show that the US team was not in the lead when Michael got out of the water after his leg of the race.

Many times in theatre we speak of developing an ensemble. As a director, I talk about the fact that no one person can create a quality theatrical production...you need costumes, lights, sound, sets, direction and acting to create a high-caliber production.

This same principle is true in life. How many times can you accomplish something truly great completely on your own...even Michael Phelps' individual gold medals were aided by his coach throughout the years. We need each other to continue our success journey.