"It might have been easier to retire, to say my knee couldn't handle it and let that be that. At the same time, the prospect of not being able to compete in gymnastics anymore was heartbreaking"

Shawn Johnson's quote speaks to the problem of making the decision to relinquish a sporting activity that has actually been a major part of her life. She recognizes that it would have been less complicated to retire due to her knee injury, however the idea of not having the ability to complete in acrobatics any longer was heartbreaking. This quote reveals the emotional battle of having to make a difficult decision, and the trouble of releasing something that has actually been a major part of her life. It also talks to the devotion as well as dedication that Johnson needs to her sport, and also her readiness to push through the discomfort in order to continue completing. Johnson's quote is a testimony to the stamina and also decision of athletes who are willing to put their bodies on the line in order to pursue their desires.