Carissa Moore being honored by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell with her own namesake holiday. Photo: Khon2 News
Joining the likes of Christopher Columbus, Martin Luther King Jr., and the groundhog known as Punxsutawney Phil, Carissa Moore has been honored with her own holiday. At least, that is, in her hometown of Honolulu, Hawaii.
And while the little boys and girls of Hawaii probably shouldn’t get giddy with anticipation, expecting to get “Carissa Moore Day” off from school, it’s still an incredible achievement. At just 18 years old, Carissa became the youngest women’s World Champion. Then four years later, at the age of 23, she locked in her third World Title. Yet throughout her dominance, Carissa has remained more humble than a blade of grass. Even when the Mayor of her hometown dedicates an annual holiday in her honor.
“Mayor Caldwell, Thank you so much for this incredible honor,” Carissa wrote in an Instagram post. “There are not words adequate enough to express my gratitude to the state of Hawaii, my family and friends, sponsors and everyone who has loved and supported me along the way. I never dreamt that I would ever be where I am today let alone ever have my own day. Presidents, people who have changed the world, they deserve to be celebrated. Me? Im just a girl who is blessed to do something she loves every single day.”
See, there it is. That monk-like modesty. Whether she believes it or not, Carissa has changed the world. She may not have abolished slavery or discovered a cure for cancer, but she has inspired girls and athletes to strive for greatness. And that’s something worth celebrating.
“Today I want you to spend time doing what you love,” Carissa said. “Do something that makes your heart and soul happy and share it with someone special. Make a moment that will last forever. Never stop chasing your dreams. Anything is possible.”
