When I started skating, it was such a small community. You didn't aspire to be rich or famous or make a career out of it because that wasn't something anyone had done yet.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the humble beginnings of skateboarding as a niche activity without aspirations for fame or wealth.
This quote by Tony Hawk captures the essence of the early skateboarding community, where participants engaged in the sport out of passion rather than for financial gain or notoriety. It highlights the purity of pursuing something simply for the joy of it, without the pressures of commercialization or the expectation of success that often accompanies mainstream activities.
In practice
This quote can be used in a discussion about the authenticity of sports and hobbies.
The pro skaters I know are responsible members of society. Many of them are fathers, homeowners, world travelers and successful entrepreneurs. Their hairdos and tattoos are simply part of our culture, even when they raise eyebrows during PTA meetings.
I believe that people should take pride in what they do, even if it is scorned or misunderstood by the public at large.
If I can stand up when I'm 80, I'll be happy to cruise around on a skateboard. If I feel like my skills are fading, I just won't do it publicly.
I consider skateboarding an art form, a lifestyle and a sport. 'Action sport' would be the least offensive categorization.
My definition of success is doing what you love. I feel many people do things because they feel they have to, and are hesitant to risk following their passion.
Skateistan's not just about skating. It’s giving people life skills and hope for the future.
If you do the work you get rewarded. There are no shortcuts in life.
Money is a good thing, but every morning you have to get up with something no one else in the world gets up with - that's that image. That face you see in the mirror, you got to love it, and you better do some things that you feel good about inside of you. Of course, money is going to come, but make certain that you do some good with it.
Success represents the 1% of your work which results from the 99% that is called failure.
You have to go broke three times to learn how to make a living.
A dollar won is twice as sweet as a dollar earned.
Without Arthur's voice, I never would have enjoyed that success.
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