Music star, Justin Bieber, and former Olympics swimmer, Michael Phelps, has openly supported U.S Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles who pulled out from the ongoing Tokyo Olympics. Biles’ reason was that she wanted to ‘’focus on her mental health.’’
The decision of the 24-year-old gymnast to withdraw from the Tokyo Olympics Women's Team Final a day earlier drew global attention. While some persons wished that she continued in the games, others supported her decision.
On his Instagram page, Bieber showed solidarity to Biles in a heartfelt post. He recalled when he had to pull out from one of his tours due to mental health issues. More so, he shared a scripture from the Bible -Mark 8:36 saying, ‘’what does it mean to gain the whole world but forfeit your soul.’’ In his words,
"Nobody will ever understand the pressures you face! I know we don't know each other but I'm so proud of the decision to withdraw. It's as simple as- what does it mean to gain the whole world but forfeit your soul. Sometimes our no's are more powerful than our yes's. When what you normally love starts to steal your joy it's important we take a step back to evaluate why.
‘’People thought I was crazy for not finishing the purpose tour but it was the best thing I could have done for my mental health!! So proud of you @simonebiles."
In 2017, the Canadian music star got people talking when he cancelled the remaining dates for his Purpose tour to concentrate on his mental health. After that event, Bieber has spoken more about his Christian faith.
Besides Bieber, Biles also got support from Olympic swimmer-turned-commentator Michael Phelps who has equally been outspoken about his mental health battles. He said that Biles’ story broke his heart.
“I hope this is an eye-opening experience … an opportunity for us to jump on board, and to even blow this mental health thing even more wide open,” Phelps added.
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