I still remember the days, not wanting to see anybody, not wanting to talk to anybody, really not wanting to live. I was on an express elevator to the bottom floor, wherever that might be.
Interpretation
The quote reflects a time of deep personal struggle and the desire to retreat from the world.
In this quote, Michael Phelps shares a vulnerable moment from his life when he felt overwhelmed and isolated, expressing a profound sense of despair. This imagery of being on an 'express elevator to the bottom floor' conveys the rapid descent into hopelessness and the emotional turmoil that can accompany mental health challenges, highlighting the importance of acknowledging such feelings and the journey toward recovery.
In practice
Using this quote to encourage individuals in a mental health workshop.
I want to be able to look back and say, 'I've done everything I can, and I was successful.' I don't want to look back and say I should have done this or that. I'd like to change things for the younger generation of swimmers coming along.
For so long, I looked at myself as literally a kid who was talented who would go up and down the pool. That's it. Nothing else. Very few people knew who I really was.
I don't want to be the next Mark Spitz; I want to be the first Michael Phelps
There are too many kids who are drowning for lack of water safety. That's something I'd like to do. Teaching kids to live an active lifestyle.
My goal is one Olympic gold medal. Not many people in this world can say, 'I'm an Olympic gold medalist.'
I know it won't be eight medals again. If you want to compare me to that, that's your decision, not mine. I'm going out there to try to accomplish the things that I have in my mind and in my heart.
Too long have the workers of the world waited for some Moses to lead them out of bondage... I would not lead you out if I could; for if you could be led out, you could be led back again. I would have you make up your minds there is nothing that you cannot do for yourselves.
I am aware that in presenting myself as the advocate of the Indians and their rights, I shall stand very much alone.
Part of what Special Olympics is trying to do is break down stereotypes that still exist for people. There is still a lot of fear.
We realize the importance of our voices only when we are silenced
If we despond, public confidence is destroyed, the people will no longer yield their support to a hopeless contest, and American liberty is no more. Through the darkness which shrouds our prospects, the ark of safety is visible. Despondency becomes not the dignity of our cause, nor the character of those who are its supporters.
The ability and inclination to use physical strength is no indication of bravery or tenacity to life. The greatest cowards are often the greatest bullies. Nothing is cheaper and more common than physical bravery.
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