Quotes from Mary Lou Retton

In L.A., we had a game room with a new sensation called Pac-Man.

In the dressing room, I always put on my right shoe first. Same thing for my right wristband.

Each of us has a fire in our hearts for something. It's our goal in life to find it and keep it.

Working hard becomes a habit, a serious kind of fun. You get self-satisfaction from pushing your self to the limit, knowing that all the effort is going to pay off.

Rather then focusing on the obstacle in your path, focus on the bridge over the obstacle.

Optimism is a happiness magnet. If you stay positive, good things and good people will be drawn to you.

Faith is a gateway to happiness that remains permanently accessible to each of us, wherever we are, no matter our circumstances.

That's because the International Olympic Committee has a policy of never replacing medals.

Many athletes competing in Atlanta wouldn't be here if it weren't for corporate support.

As simple as it sounds we all must try to be the best person we can: by making the best choices by making the most of the talents we've been given.

It's going to be really weird when I'm 80 years old, in a walker, and people are still calling me America's sweetheart. We need a new one.

A trophy carries dust. Memories last forever.

Companies that support sports developmental programs in our communities should also be applauded.

Many medal winners dream of competing in a sport other than the one they're famous for.

What is the fire that burns in your heart? If you are lucky enough to discover it, than by all means fan the flames and let the fire be the guiding light for a life worth living.

Fragile egos are put on the line every day.

Friendship is a living thing that lasts only as it is nourished with kindness, sympathy, and understanding.

Be cocky. Walk into the Georgia Dome like you own it.

Former Olympians also get paid to make appearances. Many of them won their medals in an era when Olympic success didn't go hand-in-hand with financial success.

I usually don't mind giving autographs, but when hundreds of folks with paper and pen start coming at you, it's time to seek shelter.

Having a home away from the media glare is important to world-class athletes.

For athletes, the Olympics are the ultimate test of their worth.

Each one of us has a fire in our heart for something. It's our goal in life to find it and keep it lit.

Optimism is a happiness magnet. If you stay positive, good things and good people will be drawn to you.