This phrase would often strengthen Misty Copeland to push through physical injury, racism and discrimination to become the first African-American principal dancer for the American Ballet Theater (ABT), one of the leading classical ballet companies in the United States.

Misty had a challenging childhood, having to overcome poverty, moving frequently, being a child of divorce, the struggles of growing up multiethnic and much more.  She didn’t start ballet until she was 13 years old at the Boys and Girls Club of America, which was already one strike against her.  With hard work and the help of many supportive friends and mentors over the years, Misty was able to progress as a ballerina at a rapid rate, eventually becoming a dancer for ABT.

Over the years, Misty had to battle all kinds of discrimination, from race to body type.   She didn’t fit the mold because Misty’s beautiful shape differed from the traditional view of what a ballerina should look like.  But none of that stopped her.  Misty persevered to prove that she was a versatile dancer, that though she prospered in contemporary ballet, she could excel in classical ballet as well.  Misty would always have to prove herself, and prove herself she did as she made ABT history as their first black principal dancer.

But she hasn’t stopped there.   Among other endeavors, Misty continues to share in words and lifestyle that ballet is for EVERYONE, despite the criticism she receives over it.