Determination: firmness of purpose; resoluteness.

This week's WCW (Women Catapulting Women) goes to Simone Biles!

Okay, maybe it's just because I'm in the Olympic spirit (or maybe it's because I secretly wish I could bounce and flip and jump just like her), but I, like the rest of the country, cannot stop thinking about how amazing gymnast Simone Biles is! Her determination to get her to the top is why she's the star of this weeks WCW (Women Catapulting Women).

Yes, she's young. She's 19.

Yes, she's small. She's 4'9"

But this red leotard-wearing girl doesn't let anything stop her.

Simone is the 2016 all-around women's gymnastic gold medalist. Some even argue she is the best ever.

It wasn't easy for her to be able to claim that title. She's faced struggles throughout her life, starting at birth, as her mother was addicted to drugs and couldn't care for her. Simone went to live with other family members in Texas.

However, when reading about Simone, what struck me the most was her defining decision in high school.

After unsuccessfully trying to convince the local public school to let her train in the gym for hours and attend classes, Simone chose to not go to the public high school, instead getting home schooled.

Yes, that's right.

No homecoming.

No prom.

No Friday night football games.

She put everything (including an active social life) aside in order to become a world champion gymnast. Talk about determined!

Lucky for her, it worked, and we (America) couldn't be more proud!

Simone is a perfect example about how hard work pays off and it's possible to chase your dreams.

It is a focal point of our movement to empower others, especially women. We invite you back this same time next week to see what person local or abroad we will be highlighting for the week!

XO,

LITRD Staff (Michelle)