Every week or so, I hear it in one shape or another from friends, random people and even renowned (cycling) publications: “You don’t have the genetics of the PROs, so don’t even bother thinking you have even the slightest chance of getting to that level.”
We as people tend to demonize what we don’t fully understand. Genetics is one such thing and is the latest and greatest excuse of why something is not possible. It was somewhere around 2004 when I came across the movie GATTACA starring Ethan Hawke, Uma Thurman and Jude Law.
In the not so distant future people are discriminated on their genetics to the point that they cannot obtain a certain job simply because they do not have “what it takes” in their genes. Jerome Morrow (Ethan Hawke) does the impossible and goes on to achieve his childhood dream of going into space. GATTACA features a very unorthodox ‘achieving the impossible’ plot, coupled with beautiful cinematics and a captivating soundtrack. Two quotes have stuck with me ever since the first day I saw the movie.
Just remember. I was as good as any, and better than most…
All those words and statements of the impossible are just another excuse that gets converted into a convenient permanent obstacle on YOUR way to success.
They have got you looking so hard for any flaw, that after awhile that is all that you see.
-Jerome Morrow
Remember, limitations live only in your mind, if you look hard this is all you will ever focus on. Enjoy this inspirational selection of memorable lines from GATTACA.
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2 replies on “There is No Gene for the Human Spirit: Motivational Monday with Jerome Morrow/Ethan Hawke”
The dude’s name was Vincent Anton Freeman. Jerome Morrow was just the guy he was disguising himself as.
Goog point, though doesn’t change the message:)
-Nikola