Shawn Johnson - The weight of perfection

#iamsecond #shawnjohnson @ShawnandAndrew
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Failure.
That’s how a lot of the world saw Shawn Johnson in 2008. She was supposed to be the next great American gymnast and take home a handful of gold medals at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. Instead, she won one and mostly played runner-up, losing the coveted all-around title to teammate Nastia Lukin.
“I felt like I had failed the world. I felt like since the world saw me as nothing else, that if I failed at being a gymnast, I had failed at being a human being.”
That feeling was seared into her memory when the person presenting her a silver medal at the games leaned in and said two words: “I’m sorry.”
That disappointment motivated her to win “Dancing with the Stars” the next year, and fueled a comeback attempt for the 2012 London Olympics. But, soon the weight of perfection and the expectations to be, look, and act like everyone wanted her to took a toll.
She found freedom one day while preparing to practice her balance beam routine. That’s when something - or rather someone - spoke to her.
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[@normasmither202]

Oh baby girl! God loves you just the way He made you. You don't have to be anyone but you. And what a beautiful young woman you are! I have always thought you were amazing. I do even more so after hearing your testimony. What courage you have to speak out and share your heart with others. I am so proud of you! And I know there are millions of other people who would say the same. God bless you, sweet girl!

[@mooneyes2833]

God will move mountains to meet you where you are...on a balance beam for Shawn and on the kitchen floor for me. Thank you God for your unwavering grace!

[@jssberry]

Watching this reminds me of a few things: don't judge a book by its cover. Looking at her, I would have never thought she was going through all that. Sometimes I think we forget everyone--EVERYONE--is going through something in their life. It also helped me to remember to keep God at the top. There will never be anything nor anyone greater than Him in my life, and I shouldn't desire anything or anyone else above Him. She's brave for sharing her story, and I'm sure that had to be hard, but I'm so glad she did.

[@TEMTornadoNinja]

Shawn, (you probably will never see this, but...) I had gone through a lot of what you had around the same times, though I was not in the limelight. I tore my right ACL in a skiing accident and still tried to get back into it till I injured it worse, I was a muscular gymnast (though I was tall), I'm your age, and I also found my peace and hope in Jesus. He's the only way to get through shattered dreams and drastic life style changes out of your control. Thank you for telling your story. ~TM

[@shirleya7198]

Beautiful! :-)

[@TheMidnightModder]

"If you can't win the gold medal, at least prove to the world that you deserved it." I like that idea.

[@DR8MASHUP]

I will be sure my daughters watch this. Thank you for glorifying the Lord with your life testimony.

[@nursesusan2010]

You are the only gymnast I know who has ever taken this remarkable chance of truly sharing from within. Bravo.

[@katiehanna90]

Shawn, you were my favorite gymnast in Beijing. I don't care if you came in second--you will always be the champion as far as I'm concerned.

[@BCSBB]

Glory to God. Its beautiful to see young girls accepting that God Is real and that He loves them so that he faces his only begotten son. I pray that she continue to share her testimony. She can help millions of young people come to Christ.

[@SandyKH]

Tyler, why are you laughing? Shawn was being more honest than most people have the guts to be. It's really rude to laugh at people who make themselves vulnerable and share from their heart with you. Please elaborate.

[@janosephlit8326]

I don't think tyler's comment is a mockery, but I could be wrong. let the all father judge.

[@MonicaZeringue]

You give such a sobering and humbling perspective on what is often the cost of material success, and the reality and true meaning of life. A strong woman, and humble champion!‬

[@nursesusan2010]

Shawn, you have truly surprised me. I have always liked your spirit & gymnastics. Yet, after getting to know you better (since watching "I am Second"), I like & respect you even more. I no longer see you in a box with all the other American medalists, over the years; rather you stand alone, outside the box, being uniquely golden. I love your honesty, but more so your willingness to share your thoughts and feelings with your fans & friends. You dug deep, and let us in, which I know is very difficult. Now that I know you better, I can see you as a potential friend instead of as an obscure celebrity gymnast from the past. Susan

[@FarAwayDistance]

This was sosososo beautiful.

[@ingkaafnir1569]

utfghjhr

[@LizzyJosh]

This is such an important message. It shows through Christ we can do all things , we can give our burdens to our Saviour.

[@forensicresearcher603]

She's such a beautifully genuine person~

[@kooshkack]

shes so special, its so hard to understand the hardships olympians go through.

[@MissCharletteBlythe]

Thank you so much for being so vulnerable with all of us. You made me feel less alone today and gave me another piece of hope...to push forward and continue on in my relationship with Jesus Christ. Thank you.

[@simonerussell1154]

My uncle competed in the 1968 Mexico City Olympics and experienced the same thing - touted to win gold but came away with nothing. But he is amazing. Shawn Johnson has always been a favorite. It doesn't matter whether you "win" or "lose". She has the most beautiful smile. She's an inspiration and I love that she loves God and Jesus Christ. You go girl!

[@BH-cq9zg]

Man I loved this. I thought it would end with a call for social change, but to end with the story of Jesus was beautiful. Thanks for the video!

[@randonmorford]

Shawn, it’s truly touching to hear about your struggle with the weight of perfection and the pressure to live up to the world’s expectations. It’s incredible how you’ve learned to let go and let Christ carry that burden, allowing yourself to grow and appreciate every triumph and setback. It’s so common for people to only see your success and not grasp how something like an Olympic silver medal might feel like a failure. Your story is a powerful reminder that our self-worth is not solely defined by our achievements or societal expectations. Your journey to find peace and meaning beyond the medals is truly inspiring and provides a powerful perspective for me when I consider my own successes and failures, and contemplate the value of external feedback and opinions. Thank you for opening up and sharing your heart with us, it means a lot. Love you sister!

[@traceylussier144]

Beautiful testimony. Jesus is truly all we need in life the rest is just moments in time that fall way short of eternity with him. Shes a sweet young woman with so much to offer to those coming up. Thank you for sharing that.. God Bless.

[@TheWellnessPatriot]

She is beautiful. God is so gracious and shows us so much mercy. I love how he grasped her attention. Thank you for sharing.

[@nely_bis]

Stunning! I love your honesty Shawn!

[@debrafiorillo7084]

Your not second ur beautiful extremely talented young woman now and back then!!! You should be very proud of everything u have accomplished!!! I can’t even do a backhand spring so feel proud!!! I always loved watching u !!! You were always my favorite gymnast!!!! Keep ur head up ur amazing!!!!

[@kjbrimm1]

Shawn you're an awesome beautiful women. Keep being you and a example and role model for all the little girls out there in gymnastics!

[@ziararose]

Made me cry. beautiful

[@kansasstate1863]

Wow! I needed this tonight. Thank you to I am Second and Shawn Johnson for sharing this message of encouragement. No matter what we're stressing about or dealing with, Jesus is greater!

[@icedmochanut]

Yes, HE is the end all be all! Amen

[@alvinmoore308]

Thank you, Ms. Johnson, for sharing your heart with us.

[@RockitD]

It amazes me how someone so beautiful can feel insecure. It's for all of us to know that we are unique and fearfully and wonderfully made in God's image. The applause of the world is temporary. To hear God say "Well done" is the greatest reward. #IAmSecond

[@opportunity7506]

Beautiful and touching testimony, Shawn! God bless you!

[@stevensong8784]

6:20 - 6:35 What I'm trying to embrace. Thank you for sharing Shawn Johnson!

[@MOVIMKR7]

Courage from a Godly woman. Priceless

[@weirdmodel]

This video popped up on my KZbin homepage and the title caught my eye but I told myself nah don’t bother then kept feeling the urge to watch it and I realised well you’re just going to watch some other random video that will be twice the length so I clicked it. Now after watching I know why I was so hesitant, this spoke straight into my heart, straight into my circumstances and that little voice didn’t want me watching it so I wouldn’t find relief from the pressure. Thank you so much for being vulnerable and sharing this. Thank you I am second for posting this. I’ve battled with perfectionism for so many years and I’m still battling to break it. Thank you.

[@IAm2nd]

WOW thank you for sharing that with us. And thank you for watching Shawn's film. ❤❤❤

[@metanoiavision4365]

Gorgeous, Shawn you, your testimony and your love for the almighty is absolutely wonderful!

[@Jesusfreak5071]

Thank you for sharing, Shawn, I love your honesty. Like so many others, I never would have realized that is how you felt in Beijing. Continue to keep God first in your life and keep your story with others

[@CATNP2u]

What a beautiful young woman and a beautiful message! Thank you Shawn!

[@aarontse2014]

Shawn you will always be the champion in my heart :)

[@sydneystrong6899]

I NEVER would have thought that she felt that way about Beijing! I'm so sorry. But... she was so beautiful in this video, inside and out. Love u and your inspiration! Especially excepting God into your life❤️❤️

[@scarletwilson2562]

YAY! I'm so happy she did this! I remember being little and watching you compete, and it made me so happy. You're really inspiring. She's my favorite, I would've never have thought this was the back story thanks for sharing!

[@Everythingsgonw]

I've always thought she was one of my biggest idols and role model's - and this just proved why. So beautiful.

[@kennethholton4110]

Thank you so much Shawn Johnson, what a privilege for you to honor and recognize the One who matters most! You are a marvelous daughter of THE KING!

[@lauranikolovska1172]

Love you so much Shawn. So brave of you to share your story with us.

[@biancamichelle3843]

I'm just pulled to Shawn Johnson I'm not a gymnast but I am a Track and Field sprinter so I relate to her I've watched Brain Welch and Lecra I am second but I can't stop watching Shawns And I cry ever time

[@allysonmessina1785]

Beautiful story!!! God is EVERYTHING AND THE GREATEST SUCCESS AND HAVING GREAT FAITH AND FOLLWING THROUGH AND LIVING THE TRUE PURPOSE THAT GOD HAS SET OUT FOR YOU TO BE! THAT IS LOVE, GIVING LOVING, AND BEING LOVE, AS WE ARE GODS EXPRESSION AND OUTPOUR OF LOVE!! AMEN!!

[@jarrodneufeld9534]

Powerful testimony, Shawn! Thanks so much for being vulnerable. God Bless!

[@mr.garlicman3134]

I got to meet Shawn Johnson. She was so nice. I got her Autograph and she gave me a hug. After she came back from Beijing winning in the Olympics.

[@ewelinawalek97]

Great testimony, you are great!!!

[@lauraharris9466]

Lovely lovely lovely. True words

[@JennyLynnMinistries]

So beautiful! God loves you regardless what the world says or thinks.. We are in this world but not of this world :)

[@tamirodriguez3205]

Crying. Beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@OIE82]

I have always said and it is so true, we learn far more from our failures than we do from our successes. God wants to help us we just have to get past ourselves and unfortunately that doesn't come till we hit bottom, many times.

[@janebrooks9121]

Love x 1000, Praise the Lord, He touched you and made you whole! Thank you for sharing

[@johnbugnoii]

God bless her!!

[@benaiah93]

Holy crap, I would've never known she felt that way about Beijing.

[@brainwave7632]

It's surprising to me. She seemed so happy at the time.

[@faafetaitaase3223]

God Bless You Shawn ❤ tTt ❤

[@boyertb]

Beautiful soul; beautiful young lady.

[@kimbraswell5682]

Thankyou for Sharing and Inspiring Me And Reminding Me. Sincerely

[@pauljuszkiewicz3228]

Proud of You! Can't wait for my Daughter to watch this!

[@meagharkins]

Thank you for opening up to us

[@aldensia1522]

Love this!! She's awesome

[@emptyaie]

Shawn is my hero

[@utterlynice1]

You are beautiful inside and out! God bless you. Thought you were the best dancer when you were on Dancing with the Stars! Still remember that dance that you did with Eric I was one of the most beautiful dances I’ve seen and they took points off because they said you almost jumped off the stage at the circle y’all were dancing on. You were fantastic!

[@julieanne2648]

Thank you so much for sharing.

[@florencelinderman3797]

Praise the Lord! You know Him!!

[@flamencaadicta]

I cried more than her when she lost the gold medal

[@sierradickinson760]

beautiful +Shawn Johnson

[@pamelascrochet2]

I started to stop watching this until I heard you mention our Lord and savior this is someone that calm the sea with a wave of his hand he can do anything I want you to keep believing in him and you will be all that you want to be amen don't worry about what people say words are only worth the perk people saying them if you don't like and respect someone why would their opinion mean anything to you so please stay Who You Are

[@sarunt8211]

WOW! Hallelujah! Our GOD is a amazing GOD. I'm so happy for you Shawn. God bless you.

[@believeinyourself8895]

Amen Shawna

[@anniepreshaw4226]

You are absolutely perfect! I'm sorry you felt the pain you felt. God is our ultimate fulfillment

[@sarahcb2522]

Preach Shawn!

[@bronzemuseum504]

Fame is temporary. God is forever. Theres no better feeling than being in his presence.

[@karenKristal]

thank you

[@gracieknight4669]

Omg I love you this is so awesome praise the lord🤗

[@caleb4830]

God did a real number on her. She is absolutely gorgeous. Amazing story, God proves Himself to us on the daily!

[@shannonestarks]

Yes!

[@iliepop30]

Ești o făptură minunat de frumoasă, și îmi plac gesturile tale în vorbire!

[@battlerapperd1654]

Still America's golden girl.

[@030566]

Beautiful!

[@kirstytumblesss3648]

That was like sooooo powerful coz God is the answer to everything Well said Shawn

[@MrLJolley06]

Beautiful.

[@anthony9869]

Godbless you honey your not just beautiful on the outside but more importantly on the inside also

[@dnowell1234567890]

Beautiful!!!

[@funwithayoyo]

Great video. Not to detract from the content but what is the song being used at the end of the video?

[@claudesammuller]

Amazing grace...

[@motherocean3]

Thank you for sharing that and... By the way you are beautiful inside and out.

[@bethanymathews5392]

can't believe I'm watching my childhood idol on here. :)

[@ericconklin6195]

Awesome video

[@at90percent]

Leave it to a female to turn a kind word into a tragedy. The person most likely realized that she was going for the gold metal and when she got the silver said I'm sorry that you didn't get the gold one, but that doesn't mean that the person thought she was a loser, most people could only dream to get a silver in the Olympics. That said, she is courageous and beautiful and has nothing to apologize to the world for.

[@cathryneforbes]

The way I interpreted it is that that's how she felt all ready, so to hear someone else say it made her feel like it was confirmed, regardless of whether they meant it that way or not.

[@at90percent]

cathryneforbes That goes without saying actually. Why women go through the mental calisthenics of determining what place they are in their own minds is beyond me. It's really just a lot of needless naval gazing. The woman is a champion by anyone's standards. (but her own obviously) It's simply a way of getting attention and getting everyone to feel sorry for her. It's just pointless really.

[@idolwatcher0]

It's certainly not just a female thing, so I'm not sure why you started out with that. I think, if anything, her mindset is more representative of being young with a lot of expectations on her. She was just a teenager, but also the reigning World All-around Champion going into the Olympics, and so there was a lot of attention around her and great expectations for how well she should do. Her emotions were actually very natural and understandable. And on the outside, she handled it incredibly well. A lot of people may not have even known that she was disappointed or even depressed about it. Here, she's simply recounting what was going on internally in order to honestly explain her turning point from depression to freedom from it.

[@shirleya7198]

Perfectly stated. Thank you~

[@cathryneforbes]

Pianoman 70s style "It's simply a way of getting attention and getting everyone to feel sorry for her. It's just pointless really." That is far from what it is, but go ahead and think that.

[@tanaquinie]

Amen!

[@tom8181]

Love you

[@nickc8819]

Good testimony. Thank Christ Jesus for our many blessings.

[@dpdaisyflower3]

Love it

[@rachelmcguire2411]

Awesome 😁

[@davidvanniekerk6658]

Awesome message. Super hilarious tho that she literally came second multiple times. The irony...

[@guriausa]

It's so sad that athletes are taught to be ashamed of a silver medal.

[@perromanchado]

♥

[@Pancakelover34621]

what a beautiful daughter of God! it is true that only Jesus Christ can fulfill our purpose and give us our identity. everything else will fall short

[@ygoldberg1287]

When God gets intimate nothing matters !

[@kimbraswell5682]

I I'm Second !!!