“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11

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One of the most surprising wins on the World Cup circuit of downhill skiing came several weeks ago from Lucas Pinheiro Braathen, a Norwegian-born Brazilian skier who made history for his country and the continent of South America by becoming the first Brazilian to stand on the podium at an alpine ski World Cup race and the first skier from South America to finish in the top three of a race at this level — ever — when he won at Beaver Creek in November.

Known for his electricity and charisma, he grabbed the world’s attention with his surprising victory, as well as his infectious personality and dedication to family and representing Brazil. But what caught my attention wasn’t so much this massive moment in the young 24-year-old’s career, but what happened a couple of weeks later … in an event he did not win.

While competing in a separate race shortly after his big win, he placed a disappointing 10th and didn’t finish close to the podium or perform to his level of expectations. But what he did once the race was over was nothing short of impressive: As he took to Instagram to voice his disappointment in his own performance, he readily congratulated the three top finishers.

He has continued to do this in other races he hasn’t medaled in as well. The fact that he isn’t so absorbed in his own failure and can encourage and cheer on the success of someone else is a wonderful example of sportsmanship, and has earned him high praise from his fellow competitors on the circuit.

Neuroscience is discovering what the Bible has said all along: Turning the focus off of ourselves and onto something or someone else is always healthier than wallowing in our own self-pity. Studies show that when we focus in some way on helping and supporting others, our brain’s pleasure center is activated, releasing hormones that enhance our feeling of satisfaction and reward, as well as strengthening bonds of trust and belonging. It reduces our stress and anxiety and allows us to become less self-centered, enabling us to shift attention away from our own worries or negative thoughts. This is why many psychologists recommend some form of service or acts of kindness as a therapeutic avenue for mental health when you’re stuck in a rut or feeling down. Basically, getting outside of ourselves is healing to both our spirit and our body!

Lucas Pinheiro Braathan proved that a simple shift in focus can make all the difference in how we move forward with purpose, especially when dealing with disappointment. And all through Scripture, we are reminded to lay aside feelings of self-ambition, conceit, self-interest and self-pity for the betterment of others, with the promise that by doing so, we will be rewarded in Heaven. God knows that doing life in community and supporting each other is a far better way to live than just being out for our own selves.

— Katherine Singer

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