S02 E24 A Sportsman

Jim and his twin brother Charlie were born on May 28th, 1888, in what is now Oklahoma. Just like everyone else his life was touched by joys, successes, defeats, and disappointments. 

But, this young boy grew to greatness. 

Jim spent much of his youth hunting and fishing with his dad and brother. He lived outdoors, observing, and learning to appreciate nature. He worked hard with his father, Hiram, who was a horse breeder and trainer – and bootlegger. It was said that by the time he was 6 years old he could shoot, ride, and trap. 

Jim set an example of being true to himself. He was who he was. A Native American who blessed with physical genius, a love of sports, the outdoors, and horses. 

He engaged in doing the things he loved in spite of the critics and haters and became an Olympic champion.

To those who were threatened by him, who disagreed with him, he was gracious. He allowed them to be who they were, and to think what they chose to. 

He understood that the faults you point out in others, and the arguments and conflicts you chose to have, expose not so much the faults you think you see, but instead, they lay bare your character.