Two men enter a mixed martial arts ring. One of the fighters has a full body, but the other one has no legs. Despite this fact, the smaller fighter ends up winning.

That man was called Zion Clark. He was born in 1997 with Caudal Regression Syndrome. This rare condition left him without legs or a lower body.

Clark was abandoned at birth and placed in foster care. Growing up, he was bullied, beaten, starved and regularly moved between homes. But he found an outlet in wrestling, even though he failed to win a fight for many years.

Aged 16, Clark was adopted by his foster mother Kimberlii, which he credits with turning his life around.¹ Since then he has become a successful wrestler and MMAMixed martial arts. fighter. Now he holds three Guinness World Records, including the fastest man on two hands. He has even been the subject of a Netflix documentary.²

In this year's Paralympic Games, Clark is competing for America in the wheelchair racing team. Many more people will discover his story, and some will wonder what lessons they can learn.

Clark has the words "no excuses" tattooed across his back.³ Even though he has obvious disadvantages, he refuses to let them limit his ambitions.

Clark's approach is the opposite of what some call "the victim mentality". This describes people who think of themselves as victims and blame external factors for their lack of happiness or success. Such a mindset may magnify negative experiences and leave the victim feeling helpless, anxiousWorried. and trapped.⁴

But others say the "no excuses" mentality can be harmful too. They say it minimises the traumatic circumstances that some people may have lived through. Many think we need a mindset that is more compassionateShowing understanding and sympathy to people who are suffering..

But Clark's story is not just about overcoming disadvantages. It is also about persevering no matter the obstacles. This is a universal message, given that everybody will have to cope with failure and disappointment over the course of their life.

As Clark himself argues: "If you fall down, stand up again... You don't need legs to leave a footprint on the earth.^"5

Does his life have a universal message?

Yes: Zion Clark shows how everyone can achieve. Taking complete responsibility can empower people to achieve more than they thought possible.

No: Clark is an inspiring individual, but most will struggle to relate to his life. Some people have disadvantages they are never able to overcome, through no fault of their own.

Or... The real message of Clark's life is about not giving up whatever obstacles you face. This is a message that everybody can learn from.