A VERY SPECIAL MKF PROJECT!!!

[Jenny]

Please contribute a congratulatory message for Michelle! You can write a short note, a lengthy letter, or even a poem... it's completely up to you! All of the messages will be printed out and given to Michelle sometime next week.

In addition to our messages, we are also planning to give Michelle a gift (possibly a care package and/or flowers) from everyone at MKF. Read these threads for details: <a href=http://pub1.ezboard.com/fmichellekwanforumletscongratulatemichelle.showMes sage?topicID=14.topic>Update #1</a>, <a href=http://pub1.ezboard.com/fmichellekwanforumletscongratulatemichelle.showMes sage?topicID=18.topic>Update #2</a>.

If you'd like to contribute money for the gift, please email me at <a href=mailto:jenny@mscnet.com>jenny@mscnet.com</a> and indicate the amount of money you are going to send. I will email you back with the address for where to send the money. Be sure to include your forum username in your email so I know who you are! Please note: Contributing money is not mandatory to participate in this project. If you are able to send a few dollars to help pay me back, that would be really appreciated, but it's OK to write a message even if you can't send any money. I will post a running tab on the forum of how much money has been pledged, and any money that is leftover will be donated to charity in Michelle's name.

If any of you correspond via email with people who post on MKF, please email them and tell them to come post their message! (I don't want anyone to miss out who doesn't happen to visit the forum in time to see the project! -- I'll let you all know the deadline as soon as I know to which city we're going to send the messages.)

[Brieanne]

You are a very, very wonderful skater. Words can't even describe thoroughly how your presence on the ice affects many people. If i tried to put into words how much i adore you as a skater and a person, I would be here forever.
You are a very kind person and a wonderful skater, and i hope that someday, i will get the pleasure and oppurtunity to meet you.
I had never even skated until i watched you back in '98. Then i started skating and i love it (not to mention it keeps me in shape) and i have you to thank for that inspiration, but you have also given me inspiration in so many other things as well, such as my attitude and my determination.
You have affected so many people in more ways than one, and i look forward to the coming years of enjoying your presence on the ice, and your gracious attitude and humble sportsmanship off the ice.
Congratulations Michelle Kwan on your third World title!!
A fan forever-
Brieanne H.

[Mordecai71]

Michelle,

You are such a warm, gracious person in all things, on the ice and off. Your skating is ethereal to me. I can watch you skate, and for four minutes, my problems are forgotten. Thank you for that. I find myself holding my breath whenever you glide across the ice. You are truly a wonderful artist. You have inspired me in my own art of music and dance to strive for the best. Congratulations on your third World Title and ALL of your accomplishments. I look forward to seeing all the new things you have to say on the ice. I know in my heart that you are not through talking yet and that the best is yet to come! Best of luck always.

Phillip

[eliyale]

In composing this message, I tried to think of what exactly it is that makes you the very special person that you are. You see, I am not normally the "fan" type. You are, in fact, the first person whose career I have ever followed for any extended period of time. But since I first saw you skate so brilliantly at the 1996 Worlds, your athleticism, your grace, your sportsmanship, but most important, your character have been a source of constant inspiration.

Whatever comes, whichever direction the winds of fickle public opinion blow, win or lose, you remain steadfastly YOURSELF--your delightful, refreshing, unique, honest, down-to-earth, very brilliant self. In this day of "packaged" and "branded" celebrities, this is rare indeed.

God has blessed you with an extraordinary gift, and it is not your talent for skating. This is what He uses to draw our attention to your TRUE gift: your character.

So this is my tribute to you.

Fred (aka Mr.) Rogers speaks in the language of children, but his truths are universal. Compliments of Mr. Rogers:

It's you I like,
It's not the things you wear,
It's not the way you do your hair--
But it's you I like
The way you are right now,
The way down deep inside you--
Not the things that hide you,
Not your toys--
They're just beside you.

But it's you I like--
Every part of you,
Your skin, your eyes, your feelings
Whether old or new.
I hope that you'll remember
Even when you're feeling blue
That it's you I like,
It's you yourself,
It's you, it's you I like.

[Googoo]

Dear Michelle,
Congratulations on winning your third World Title! I am so happy for you! I am so proud of the courageous and beautiful way in which you executed your two programs. I cried tears of joy when I watched your long program.
I wish you continued success in skating and school! Best of luck!
Googoo

[Rene]

Dear Michelle,
I cried 5000 times that day too! Thank you
Tracie

[maryada]

Dear Michelle It's hard to come up with new and different things to say to you about how I and so many others feel about you, as so many of those others say it so eloquently. I just want to add my heartfelt thank you for the gift that you give to us every time you skate. You have given me more joy these last six years than I have experienced in a lifetime. I'm a grandma and great grandma many times over and have never ever been a fan of anyone, but I am proud to say I am a Michelle Kwan Fan for life. It's not just your skating. it's who you are and what you have been so willing to share with the world. It's your family and your family values, it's your heart, and the way you conduct yourself. It's the way peope want to deal with a situation the way Michelle would, as I have seen so many times in posts from members of this Forum. Your humility, and love, has influenced us to try harder to be better persons. Thank youCongratulations for winning the Gold Medal at the 2000 World Championships. Your skate was breathtaking. I will have seen you at COI Sunday in Philadelphia and will also be at this competition in Binghamton --two of the most exciting days of my life. Several of my grandchildren share my feelings about you, and one of them will be attendig this competition with me. I wish you a happy and wonderful life on and off the ice and thank you again from the bottom of my heart. MaryAda Campagna Scranton, Penna.

[Terri]

Dear Michelle,

I am such a big fan of yours, as a skater and as a person. The champion spirit you exhibit both on and off the ice continues to impress me. Your grace and talent is truly awe-inspiring and only overshadowed by the beauty radiating from the inside out. It has been a privilege and an honor to watch you mature from an adorable little girl into a poised and compassionate young lady. I wish you all the best in skating, college, and in living a life full of joy.

Terri Wilson
Baton Rouge, LA

[andycat]

Your courage, strength, sportsmanship and talent are an inspiration!

Whatever the future may bring you, know that your diehard fans are behind you all the way!

You ROCKED at World's and I hope you're enjoying a well-deserved break from the rigors of school - training - competition.

Congratulations and thanks for touching us all with your beautiful skating!

[marlana]

I want to congratulate you on your triumphant win at the Worlds. I was as proud of you as if I were watching my own child skate. I taped it and have watched it over and over because both programs are so beautiful. You have a real presence on the ice that no other skater has and you move people with your skating. And that is a real gift. Congratulations.

[NicoleM]

Michelle,

I am continually awed and inspired by your strength, determination, intelligence, warmth, humility, humor, and beauty. You are one of the main reasons I watch skating. Thank you for the lasting memories you created this season... your fans appreciate it! I will never forget the excitement of watching you attack the "Red Violin" program at Worlds. It was incredible! I am always proud of you, whether or not you place first. But I must admit that I'm happy that you did! You always represent the U.S. so well.

Have a great summer, and take the time to savor your latest accomplishments!

Nicole

[Valerie]

Michelle, you have been blessed with God's many gifts, and one of the many blessings we've had is to witness your talent develop. You are a beautiful skater, and a wonderful person who is extremely gracious. Congratulations on you magnificent skate at 2000 World Championships--we, as your fans are extremely proud of you, not because you won the gold medal, but because you skated your very best, a personal triumph!

May God keep you in His love and light.

Valerie
Canada

[FlashOBlue]

Some sports writer called you that last week and I agree! Thank you for enchanting us again with your spark and gorgeous skating. I held out fot the short program...watched it unfold on TV, but couldn't stand the suspense for the Long! I found out early Saturday morning that you had won! What a wonderful celebration party we all had on this "Michelle Kwan Forum!" I think I spent six hours on line!
Congratulations on your third world title! And thank you for all the joy your skating has added to my life!
Shelia Rudesill
Eureka, CA

[Deetlebug]

Dear Michelle:

Flowers thrown on the ice are a tradition, I know. But that's no way to treat something as beautiful as a flower. So we Michelle Kwan Forum-ers are sending our flowers to you in the gentle, reverent, respectful way they deserve to be treated - because that's how YOU deserve to be treated too!!

Congratulations on your third World title. I am sooooooooo happy for you. The best and happiest moment of this Worlds was definately that beautiful glow of happiness on your face after you nailed your long program. I was just so thrilled for you that I didn't care what color medal you won. Your evident satisfaction with how you skated was definately brighter than even the gold medal!!

I am looking forward to seeing you skate in Hartford, CT next week. Last year I was the one who was screaming and cheering for you the loudest. I will be cheering for you again this year too! Hope you have a terrifically fun summer and that you have a chance to take a wee vacation for yourself too.

Take care and keep flashing that beautiful, shining smile.

Hugs,

Denise Desiree Grosse

[wunderbere]

"To learn to dance by practicing dancing or to live by practicing living, the principles are the same. . . . One becomes, in some area, an athlete of God." -Martha Graham

You are forever our angel on ice.

Sharon Fujimoto-Johnson
Sacramento, CA

[Beth2000]

Dear Michelle,

I have watched you skate ever since I can remember. What I appreciate about you the most is your warmness. It seems no matter what is going on you always have a smile on your face. When I find myself getting angry over something stupid I think of you and realize that I shouldn't be that way but that I should be thankful for everything that God has given to us. You have shown me so many times how you are thankful for everything no matter what.

Just keep skating and enjoying yourself as you do it. Congradulations on your third World title. You make us proud. We don't care if you don't win the gold all the time. Just watching you skate is what makes us happy! You are a warm and beautiful person.


Love,

Beth Couture
@ Michelle Kwan Forum

[GinnySmith]

Dear Michelle,
A few days ago, a co-worker asked me if I was "glued" to the T.V. set last Saturday night. I told her not only was I glued, but that I had recorded your awesome Red Violin long program, and had watched it at least 15 times.

In fact, I warned her that if I didn't show up to work for a few days, they should send someone to check on me, at which point they would probably find me expired, holding on to my remote control permanently stuck on rewind, with a frozen smile on my face, kind of like that guy in "Waking Ned Devine...."

As person and athlete--You ROCK!! It isn't the winning that impressed me. It is the way you raised up against all odds and delivered your absolute best, knowing that even your best might not achieve the desired result.

Thanks for working so hard and for being such a great role model to people of all ages. Oh, and yes, please try to have a lot of fun while you are at it!

Congratulations, good luck at UCLA, and have a great life!

Ginny Smith
Los Gatos, Ca

[skates_1998]

Dear Michelle,

Congratulations on winning this year's World Championships!!! You were incredible, awe-inspiring, and your ever-gracious self. I have been so amazed by your ability to handle the tough college load at UCLA as well as keep up your skating at such a high level. I knew that you would prove all the nay-sayers wrong!! I have been a fan of yours for about 6 years now, and I feel like I really know you, b/c you are so open and honest in all your interviews and in your autobiography.

I wish you all the best and the best of luck in the coming years, the 2002 Olympics, and in your education. I know you will always succeed at whatever you do, but especially as a legend in figure skating.

Sincerely,
Kim L.
kpl110@yahoo.com

[kwanluv]

Michelle,

I've never written a fan letter before, so my words can't fully express how much you've meant to both figure skating and us, your fans. Ever since I first saw you at the 1996 world championships, I was in amazement with the beauty, grace and athletic ability you showed in winning that title. Since that time, I've followed your career with great enthusiasm and joy. Over the past four years I've seen you handle your victories and hardships with great poise, shortsmanship and grace. You continue to both inspire and delight us all with your talents on and off the ice. It makes me proud to be a fan of such a wonderful person who's a role model to millions of people.

This season was no doubt a challenging season for you with balancing both UCLA and all your skating commitments. At worlds this year you showed yet again the unique and powerful gift you have in believing in yourself and made us all very proud and happy for you! Congratulations on winning a very difficult third world title Michelle and continued success, health and peace in the future.

Michelle, know that you are loved and supported very much and are truly the most beautiful and inspired skater I've been lucky enough to watch and enjoy these past years.

I think the first four lines of "One More Time" express to me why you skated to this beautiful song which I feel says it all about you:

Nothing I must do...
Nowhere I should be...
No one in my life...
To answer to, but me...

You're a very special person Michelle, always continue to "be yourself, and have fun"!

Best regards,

Greg Ireland :)
flagdivas@msn.com

[michellesmom]

Dear Michelle,

Congraulations on your third World Championship. I would wish you good luck, but you have already shown that you know it is not luck that counts. It takes perseverance, dedication, and just plain hard work to make a champion in life as well as on the ice. You already have what it takes--the spirit of an athlete, the soul of an artist, and the heart of a champion. Thank you for the hours of entertainment and the inspiration you have provided. And please give your family and Frank a thank you and a great big hug.

[susanp]

Dear Michelle,

I could write about all the times I have smiled, cried and had goosebumps
while watching you skate. Or about how I was depressed but your
working through adversity to win the 2000 WFSC helped bring me out. Or
I could tell you about two elderly women, Clara and Barbara, who live at the nursing home
and watch you every chance they can and how they have your picture on their meager walls.
But I think what I want most to convey to you is how thankful I am that God
has blessed you with this incredible gift, and that you in turn use it to bless us.

ps ( Many of us on this forum prayed for you while you were in Nice. Our prayer
was for your safety and for you to have peace in your mind and heart. You can tell
Frank, there really is a God and he does answer prayers : )

Susan Pearson

[Linustm511]

Everyone said all things that I wanted to say to you. The one thing which i want to tell you that my family loves you, and you are our real role model. I hope that you have fun at COI, and great summer time.

[skatestar]

Dear Michelle,

Congratulations on winning your third world title!!!! I am so happy and proud of you for putting in such a breathtaking, awesome, perfect performance to win the title. You are SO amazing! I knew 2000 was your year to recapture the world title, and I'm so thankful that fate played itself out right! :-) You have always been such an inspiration to me, and I thank you for sharing your grace, humility, sense of humor, and wise advice with us through your skating, interviews, and books. I feel like I know you even though we have never met! <!--EZCODE EMOTICON START :) --><img src=http://www.ezboard.com/intl/aenglish/images/emoticons/smile.gif ALT=":)"><!--EZCODE EMOTICON STOP-->

I still admire your decision to both skate and go to college, and I hope you continue to enjoy both! Best of luck in whatever you choose to pursue, and know that no matter what, I will always be rooting for you! Again, CONGRATULATIONS MICHELLE!!!

Sincerely,
Kelly L.
kvl102@mailexcite.com

[Cherie]

Congratulations Michelle, and once again you have inspired me to write another
poem for you.
I would like to share it with you now.

Michelle's Red Violin
by Cherie Abbott

The air was filled with a haunting tune
from a single violin.
The crowd was tense but mesmerized
in hopes that she would win.

She skated with such elegance,
power strength and speed.
In landing all her triple jumps
she surely did succeed.

Performing first within her group
could unnerve any skater,
Knowing judges reserve marks
for those who may skate later.

She gave it everything she had
from the beginning to the end.
To all of those who had doubts,
a message she did send.

It had been quite a challenge
Between skating and school,
Having found the right balance,
she proved she's no fool.

Her artistic perfection
was second to none,
Rewarded with Gold
when it was all said and done.

Her face all aglow
from her radiant smile,
Her joy and excitement
will last a long while.

Had she not won the Gold
she'd have still felt the same,
For she skated her best
living up to her name.

So on top of the World
she stands yet again,
In her velvety dress
from "The Red Violin."

[badhairday]

I am just happy to have been blessed during a time you are skating. You're skating is something I cherish everytime you step on the ice. There's always something to look for and enjoy. I was thrilled when you won your 3rd World Championships. I was watching it live on the internet with fellow Michelle Kwan Forum posters... when it was announced that you were the winner, we all celebrated, cried, you name it... it was really good that you got the recognition that you deserved. Just want to let you know that although a few thought you couldn't do it, the MKF was always very supportive and loving you. May you enjoy your summer, school, and whatever you want in life. God Bless you Michelle!!!

[Jennis]

Michelle,
Just wanted to let you know we love you through thick and thin and pray for you everyday. We're behind you 100%! I'll be cheering you on at Pittsburgh's COI.
Judy

[Isabelle]

Michelle,

Thank you for all the grace and beauty you have shown on and off he ice. I guess not only us the fans, but the entire figure skating world also, are glad and grateful to ever have such a skater like you--because you made the sport and let so many know what figure skating could be like and you have delievered such a sportsmanship that apperaed to be so many's role model. You let so many to realize what a real champion is like and let us find the meaning of success. I am so proud of you and glad to know such a person like you in my life. You are precious!

Isabelle

[Jordi]

I was lucky enough to see your first performance of "Kissing You" in competition at the 1999 Keri Classic, and it was so gorgeous. I admire your grace both as a skater and in your nature as a person. On behalf of myself and my grandmother (who adores you), congratulations on your latest world title and best of luck in everything you do over the next few years.

P.S. We look forward to seeing you in Champions On Ice at the end of April!

Jordanna Morgan

[Scout]

Congratulations on your third World Medal, but mostly
for skating your very best when it counted the most!

I am so thankful that I have had the chance to witness your extraordinary talent over the past several years and I am looking forward to many more years of the
same. Watching you skate just brings an added joy
to my life that is hard to describe. You have touched
me as a skater and as a person. Thanks for sharing
your gift!

Suzanne McGee

[taf2]

Dear Michelle,
Congratulations on your perfect performance of "The Red Violin"-it was breathtaking to watch. What is so impressive about it is that there was a chance you wouldn't win no matter how well you skated, yet you still went out and delivered a masterful, technically brilliant and beautiful performance anyway. No wonder you're such a great inspiration and role model for so many people. Good luck to you in all you do.

[IzzyS]

Dear Michelle,
It's difficult to put into words how much better the world is because of you. Your grace on and off the ice, your ageless wisdom, your ability to live up to your own motto, "Work hard, be yourself, have fun"--you are such an inspiration to millions. I'm so happy for you, not only because of your third world title and the amazing performances that earned you the honor, but because you proved to all of the naysayers that it is possible to excel in skating and in school and to have fun in the process. While I hope you continue competing for years to come and delighting us with your incredible athletics and artistry, my greatest hope for you is that you continue to find the kind of life that brings you happiness, since you've brought such happiness to so many. Thank you so much for being Michelle.

[SK8fan2]

Michelle,

Congratulations on your 3rd WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP!!! I'm so happy for you, but what makes me the happiest is that we saw you skate The Red Violin with so much fire and passion. After that skate, it didn't matter what color your medal was. That was the skate of a champion!

You must know, Michelle, that you have taught your fans the value of "the process" without regard to "the result". Your determination, work ethic, and fabulous attitude have taught us all that, as long as you do your best from preparation through performance, the color of the medal makes no difference. You are still a champion!

Anyway, this time the process yielded the perfect result! It's the one you definately deserved after working so hard, and I heartily congratulate you!

[Jackylutz]

Congratuation Michelle, not just your coach and family support you, but also we MICHELLE KWAN FANS always and forever support you in whatever you do!!!!!! And WE MEAN IT! <!--EZCODE EMOTICON START :) --><img src=http://www.ezboard.com/intl/aenglish/images/emoticons/smile.gif ALT=":)"><!--EZCODE EMOTICON STOP-->

So, please don't forget us fans too. <!--EZCODE EMOTICON START :) --><img src=http://www.ezboard.com/intl/aenglish/images/emoticons/smile.gif ALT=":)"><!--EZCODE EMOTICON STOP-->

We love you!!!!!!!!!

Have a wonderful summer.

Love always,
Jacky

[Felicity8]

Dear Michelle,
I don't think that I have ever cried so much as after you skated your long program at worlds. I was so impressed by your speed, espically during your circular footwork. There are so many poeple who are proud of you and can't wait to see you skate in the next Olympics. Take care and good luck in your skating and your school work.
Love,
Ann

[Marie]

Michelle,

I just wanted to add my congratulations to you on your third World Championships!! It was wonderful to see you skate with such fire and attack. I love the music from The Red Violin - and am glad that you chose to skate to it.

Good luck with school this summer!

Jennifer Cook
Cleveland, Ohio

[Sandy]

Michelle, CONGRATULATIONS on a job well-done!! You are the epitome of grace under fire but you came through with great passion and determination to win your third world championship. I wish you the best of luck on your endeavor, and may you triumph above all obstacles!! Good Luck!!

A very devoted fan,
Sandy

[Francis]

Dear Michelle,
You leave me mesemerized each time your on the ice. And you are such a beautiful person, filled with such great character that I admire so much. Probably everything I want to say has already been said from your other fans. Just know that I treasure your skating so much that you've touched my heart and given me a new perpective on life. Thank you for being you and congratulations on a well deserved 3rd world title! =)

-Francis Monsada
United States Marine Corps
Camp Pendleton, CA

[Allie2006]

You are my favorite skater of alltime and you recent Worlds performance moved my mother and I to tears when we saw it. It was a wonderful and moving program.
You are my idol becuase I am a skater and I see the positive way you deal with all your results and how you and your competitors are so friendly. I wish you the best!!
Love
Ashley
cavicchi1@mediaone.net

[Cy93LMG]

Congratulations on winning your third world title! I'm very happy for you and I wish you continued success. As a mother, I am happy there is an athlete like you who is a shining example of how a person can be honest, decent and successful all at the same time. Thank you for being that example. I hope that children, especially young girls, will look to you for inspiration for years to come.

I am looking forward to seeing you at Champions on Ice in May and at Worlds in Vancouver, (if I manage to get tickets!) Best of luck to you in your skating and your studies at UCLA.

Regards,
L M Gruman

[Lexi]

Dear Michelle,
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp &nbsp Congratulations on winning your third World Championship! You are truly an inspiration to the world as a skater and as a person. We feel your power, we see your beauty and we know your heart through your skating. It is truly an honor to witness your magic as you display your art and athleticism on your canvas of ice. You are an inspiration to me personally in many ways; but it was particularly inspirational to see how you managed school and skating with such wisdom, poise and grace! I'm a college student as well, so I can only understand a fraction of what you accomplished this year! Hope you continue to have a great 2000, and may your life be blessed throughout the coming years!

Your in my thoughts and prayers!
Congratulations and best wishes,
Anna
Fairfield, Iowa

[Lexi]

Dear Michelle,
&nbsp &nbsp &nbsp &nbsp Congratulations on winning your third World Championship! You are truly an inspiration to the world as a skater and as a person. We feel your power, we see your beauty and we know your heart through your skating. It is truly an honor to witness your magic as you display your art and athleticism on your canvas of ice. You are an inspiration to me personally in many ways; but it was particularly inspirational to see how you managed school and skating with such wisdom, poise and grace! I'm a college student as well, so I can only understand a fraction of what you accomplished this year! Hope you continue to have a great 2000, and may your life be blessed throughout the coming years!

You're in my thoughts and prayers!
Congratulations and best wishes,
Anna
Fairfield, Iowa

[thumpers]

Dear Michelle, Congrats on another world title and a great program! You inspire me so much. I recently finished reading The Winning Attitude and even though it's geared toward younger kids it's a great motivational book for all! Your attitude about life is wonderful and I hope you get everything you dream of. Keep up the good work in school also.

[BrandChi]

Michelle,
Your skating, like music, like love, has the power to make people cry, make people laugh, and make them happy. You've meant so much to us all and you've been such an inspiration to the Asian American community. Thanks so much for the years past and the years to come.
Chi

[kaila]

I think it's quite unusual for spectators of a sporting event to be weeping, yet time after time that's what I find myself doing during your competitions. Last month's world championships is just the latest example.

Michelle, you give so much of yourself at each and every performance. You never cease to touch us with your grace and poise and sheer beauty. Regardless of anything that critics might say, your skating is beyond reproach. It is a pure source of joy.

Thank you for sharing your joy for skating with us.

kaila@bfok.com

[CherylHayden]

Dear Michelle,

It takes a special person to touch the hearts of so many. I know you have touched mine with your character, grace, and beauty. I would just like to wish you well in all you do.

Because of you I've become inspired to try new things, so that turning 40 wasn't a tragedy for me, but a new beginning, the springtime of next part of my life.

Looking forward to seeing you in Colorado Springs COI.

Cheers,
Cheryl Hayden
Colorado Springs, CO

[Sharon]

Dear Michelle:

Kudos to you for the absolutely gutsy performance you gave to win. I was crying right along with you! I am so glad that you found the strength and determination again to skate your very best, to be a "tough cookie", despite what others said about you. Thank you for continually showing me what a great sportswoman you are, and what all sports people should be. But most of all, it was wonderful to see that you seemed truly happy when you skated in the short program and the final long program. That's what's most important to me. That's what I love best about your skating. That ability to move me with your love of skating. No one else has ever done that for me, and for that I must Thank You again.

Congratulations,

Sharon Sundy
Ontario, California

[AYS]

Dear Michelle,

Your skating has brought me such joy and wonderful emotion over the years! I was so happy to see your huge smile and happy excitement after your fantastic performance of The Red Violin at the 2000 World Championships.

Congratulations on a terrific victory. I hope you are enjoying your third world title as much as all of your fans enjoyed watching you win it.

Best of luck in all of your endeavors, and please, let us continue to enjoy your skating for a long time to come!

Sincerely,

Amy Yellen-Shaw

P.S. I love your new Bond program; I saw you perform it at Philadelphia.

[kwanette]

Long before you ever skated to Lyra Angelica, you were an angel. Congratulations on your third world title.The first time I saw you skate, I knew that you were someone special. Your humility in victory and grace and dignity in defeat have made you a role model for young people and also "old ladies" like me! Your Bond number in Philadelphia was fabulous...I saw it on April 9th..just terrific!Thanks for all of the joy that you have given me over the past 7 years....

[gratefulmkfan]

Dear Michelle,

I've been watching you since you were a tyke, and I am just so grateful that you born in my lifetime. Thank your parents for me, please<!--EZCODE EMOTICON START :) --><img src=http://www.ezboard.com/intl/aenglish/images/emoticons/smile.gif ALT=":)"><!--EZCODE EMOTICON STOP--> . I don't know if you are aware of how many avid fans you have or how much you mean to us. Please join us at the Michelle Kwan Forum sometime, and you can see for yourself <!--EZCODE EMOTICON START :) --><img src=http://www.ezboard.com/intl/aenglish/images/emoticons/smile.gif ALT=":)"><!--EZCODE EMOTICON STOP--> .

Personally, when I see you happy, my smile is the biggest. I cried for happy with you for the first time at '96 Worlds, though I'd been enjoying you and your skating for a few years before that. At this year's Worlds, you had tremendous obstacles to overcome, including 2 bad draws, which your beautiful and authoritative skate turned into a GOLD Medal. When you finished your Long Program, I told my husband that I wished we were rich so that we could send you the most huge (practically obscene) floral arrangement. You had not won yet, but you had a major personal victory, no matter what the outcome. The placements were in the hands of others, even though you skated so perfectly and passionately, but you were GOLDEN to me, no matter what the placements. Besides loving TRV as a program, I was ecstatic at your joy - loved those fist pumps after your skate. Watching the tape still gives me goosebumps.

Happily, I get to say Congratulations, Michelle, on your third World title which you so richly deserved. I also want to say "Thank You Michelle" for all the joyous moments you brought to my life by just being you.

Sincere best wishes,
Debbi W a/k/a GRATEFULMKFAN

[attyfan]

Dear Michelle:

Thank you for doing more than merely creating moments of great beauty on
the ice; you also have created moments of great sportsmanship.
Congratulations on the win at Worlds, and, good luck with college.

Esther & Ira Sorkin
Ventura, CA

[CarrieAnn]

Michelle,
I have watched you from the time you were a little girl and I knew you would be something "special". Your skating, grace and beauty both on the ice and off have endeared you to the world. Congratulations on winning your third World title. Your long program was a work of art! We cannot wait to see what you have in store for us next. Whatever you do in life, remember to "let go and have fun!"
We love you!

Carol Beck
Summerville, SC

[Y2002Kwan]

Congratulations on winning your third World Figure Skating Championship. I, personally, will never forget your brilliant performance in the free skate, and the joy you exhibited when you completed the program. The ovation you received clearly demonstrates that the world has not had enough of your skating. I hope you experience continued success and happiness both on and off the ice.

[ILOVEMWK]

Michelle, you have been my role model and someone to look up to for the past 3 years. I look back at those 3 years and think about how much I have changed and what I have gone through. Your wonderful display of a positive attitude has made a HUGE impact on my life. Often I find myself saying, "Now if Michelle were in this situation, how would she handle it?" I just want to thank you for being a GREAT role model and helping me through those hard times (even though you didn't know it!!!) You're the BEST!!! Keep striving for your goals and NEVER give up!!!

[annabelle]

Dear Michelle,
Congratulations on your 3rd World Title! Your performance was absolutley memorizing and brought tears to my eyes. You continue to awe us and inspire us every year with your kindness, beauty and grace. You truly are an amazing individual. I wish you luck and success in everything that you do!

Ann Nguyen

P.S. GO BRUINS!

[barang]

congratulations for the 3rd world title. words can't express how much i admire you. you have shown young and old alike that winning is not everything but how you live and cherish every moments of life. thank you for teaching us this lesson because life as you know today focuses more on winning and bunch of superficial matters but you are not. you are one genuine, honest, kind and down to earth celebrity i know. hope you'll always stay the same and i pray that GOD will continue to bless you and your family and also may HE gives you joy, peace and confidence in your skating, school and life in general.

i wish one day to meet you in person to get your autograph or pose for a picture with you. crossing my finger.

best wishes,
alain
san jose, california
barang @ mk forum

[Kara]

Dear Michelle,
Congratulations, 2000 WORLD CHAMPION<!--EZCODE EMOTICON START :) --><img src=http://www.ezboard.com/intl/aenglish/images/emoticons/smile.gif ALT=":)"><!--EZCODE EMOTICON STOP--> ! I've never seen such flawlessness under such pressure-packed and against-the-odds circumstances. You blew everyone away - competitors and fans, alike. What more can I say? I guess, "thank you."
I wish you could grasp how much your inspired skating, music, and even costumes (everything!), as well as *the person you are* means to us. I always wonder if you know how much joy you bring to us and what you would think if you did know...because you truly *matter* in our lives.
I thank God for you - you are a unique blessing to thousands of people. When I'm in a bad mood, I put on your tape, and I just feel better...did you know that most of us at MKF have a "Best of Michelle Kwan" tape with all of your senior ladies programs on it? A generous member complied it and sent copies all over the country so each of us could witness your growth both on and off the ice...and more fully appreciate your past, current, and future successes. Those are the kinds of fans you have and the kind of goodness and interest you inspire in others. Your fans - the people who just love ya to pieces, want the best for you always, and are *right there with you* every time you take the ice - also care about each other. That's why MKF is such a warm, homey, and, it sounds strange, but even spiritual place to visit.
So, thank you, Michelle, for leading me to a great bunch of people, for inspiring me by your beauty on and off the ice, and for making the skating season SO DARN MUCH FUN! BTW, I love the way you've been pullign your hair back lately<!--EZCODE EMOTICON START :) --><img src=http://www.ezboard.com/intl/aenglish/images/emoticons/smile.gif ALT=":)"><!--EZCODE EMOTICON STOP--> , hehe! I wish for you all the joy and meaning that you have so freely given to others. May God continue to bless you,
Kara Lopsonski
Allentown, Pa.

[MishyAngel]

Dear Michelle,

I have written to you in the past, but it is always difficult to fully express what you and your skating have meant to me over the past six years. I am 2 1/2 years younger than you, and I guess I have looked up to you as a sister of sorts. Your win at Worlds was a reaffirmation to me that faith, hard work, and persistence are always rewarded in the end. I attended Nationals in Cleveland, and the experience of seeing your magic in person is something I'll carry with me forever. When I've had a hard day, all I have to do is pop in one of my many tapes of you, see the joy in your face and hear the grace in your words, and I am reminded of all that is good and important in life. In short, Michelle, you lift my spirits!
I know how unbelievably tiring and overwhelming life must get for you, and I hope that you'll have plenty of time to relax with your family this summer. Congratulations, God bless you, and thank you for sharing your spirit with us. <!--EZCODE EMOTICON START :) --><img src=http://www.ezboard.com/intl/aenglish/images/emoticons/smile.gif ALT=":)"><!--EZCODE EMOTICON STOP-->

Sarah
Pittsburgh, PA

[LYRA1]

You have captured my heart and soul ever since I began watching you in 1995. You are truly an angel on ice. The emotions you portray on the ice is unbelieveable and you continue to captivate me to this day. I admire you as a person and skater because wether you are going through ups and downs you are always smiling. <!--EZCODE EMOTICON START :) --><img src=http://www.ezboard.com/intl/aenglish/images/emoticons/smile.gif ALT=":)"><!--EZCODE EMOTICON STOP--> Congratulation's on a three-peat at World's.

Kaneisha Cunningham
Washington, DC

[JCFrennie]

Congratulations Michelle! All that needs to be said about your skating, your decision to go to school, your beauty, your grace, and the inspiration you've given us has already been said by all your fans here. Good luck with everything and thank you so much for bringing such joy to my life.

Jennifer <!--EZCODE EMOTICON START :) --><img src=http://www.ezboard.com/intl/aenglish/images/emoticons/smile.gif ALT=":)"><!--EZCODE EMOTICON STOP-->

[keanra]

Dear Michelle,
Everyone is so proud of you! The guts that you showed during the long program is an inspiration to anyone that has heard your name. Keep up the great work. We love you!!
~Kelly, Ohio

[Ice Butterfly]

I'll make this short and sweet...

Now I know that anything is possible... once you put your heart, soul and mind into it.

Others may have doubted you, but I knew you would come through and shine brighter than ever!

You have been a wonderful inspiration and have touched us all in many ways. More than you can ever imagine. Keep smiling and good luck! God bless you and keep you forever!

[AntaresSLC]

Michelle,
Ever since I first watched you skate, I was amazed how this girl who was the same age as me could accomplish so much. And, through the seasons, I've watched you improve so much. I'm so proud of you for winning worlds this year. I don't know how you do it, juggling skating and college, you amaze me. Keep smiling, and bringing the smiles to all your fans' faces. We love you!
--Shanna Cross
Antares80@aol.com

[Kwanspiral]

Dear Michelle,
I just want you to know that I sent you a messaged when you're in Nice (Under Aida). I prayed and watched
you live through Eurosport Internet, and I was jumping in joy after you skate your LP. I knew, you will win.
Congratulation Michelle. I will pray for your success
and especially your win in 2002 Winter Olympic.


Aida

[sgfan]

Dear Michelle,

Congratulations on winning your third World Championship title! You worked so hard for so many years to give your fans many, many great skating performances. Your long program at Nice will be long remembered as one of my favorites.

I couldn't wait to see the outcome of the long program. I got on the internet early that Saturday morning and joined countless others to watch the women's long program on Eurosport. Even though we couldn't hear or see everything that was going on, we could at least see the scores of each one after they skated. While waiting for you to skate, I took the time to pray for you. I didn't pray for a win or for the other skaters to fall, but I just prayed that you would skate your best and land your triple/triple jump. Since you were the first one to skate in the last group, I wanted you to just skate your best so that no matter how the judges scored you or how the other skaters did, you'll be happy with how you skated and know in your heart that you skated your best. That's all us fans wanted for you too!

I loved what Frank Carroll said about you in a newspaper article after your win: "She's such a great human being," he said. "I wanted it for her because she's so ethical and so kind to people. I feel like there is a God." Yes, there is a God and he answered our prayers!

Thanks again for being who you are, "a great human being" which this world needs more of. I'm glad that you enjoy these competitions and will be staying in the eligible ranks for many years to come. I can't wait to see what other great programs you have in store for us! God bless!

[skatingfan]

You have the heart of a champion, the soul of an angel,
and the grace of a swan. Thanks so much for being
such an inspiration. Wish you the best.

C.C.
Maryland

[Joshua]

When all seemed lost, you proved them all wrong. I am so happy for you. You deserved that title for so many reasons. I'm just glad that you had a perfect freeskate, so that you could show everyone out there that you still have the fire, the passion, and the determination that you had during the '95-'96 season.

I also wanted to say thank you. You've brought so much joy and happiness in my life even though I've never met or spoken to you before. Being a beautiful skater and human being, inside and out, makes me proud to have you as my role model. Like Peggy Fleming once said about you, "She takes us on a journey of emotions"....and you do. I don't know of anyone else on tv who can both make me happy, upset, disappointed, or sad. I can't even think of words that describe the way you make me feel. You will be my favorite skater, always. I wish you continued success in skating and school; and I thank God for the day he brought Michelle Kwan into this world. Congratulations Michelle, 4 time national champion, 3 time world champion, and Olympic silver medalist.

Eric J. Mendoza
San Diego, CA

[fdevine]

Dear Michelle,
Congratulations on winning your third world title. Most of all congratulations on being you. I can't tell you how moved I was watching The Red Violin program or how moved I was at the way you reacted. I know it must be very difficult to make the decisions you are making concerning school and skating, but this Grannie just wants to tell you that I'm behind you one hundred percent whether you win two Olympic Gold Medals or decide to never skate again.(I know I'd cry though) Anyway, Michelle, please know that your fans love you, and even non-fans must respect you very much.
Please accept this hug from me.
((((((((((((Michelle)))))))))))))

[SkateFan007]

Hi Michelle! My name is Grishma, and I'm 14. I just wanted to congratulate you on your awesome performances at Worlds this year. Keep up the terrific work! Here is a poem I wrote a while ago about you:

A gentle stroke on the ice,
Leaves all who watch her mesmerized,
Her strokes, her spins, her artistry,
Leaves a spell that you'll remember.
The ice is the canvas on which she paints,
She is the artist,
The standard of perfection,
On the ice.

[Caroline]

Dear Michelle,

Just to let you know that you do indeed have fans all around the world. I'm from Malaysia and I've been in the States for 4 years and ever since I saw you skating, I've been a fan of this sport. It is a shame but this wonderful sport is quite unnoticed in my country (it's 90F with 100% humidity all year round so that could be one of the reasons!).There is hope tho. A tiny skating ring ( the first ever in the city I come from) was built 3 years ago in a shopping complex.

I don't want to make big promises that I can't keep but one thing I'm sure of and that is -- when I return to my country, I plan to promote ice skating in some small way... perhaps I'd bring home skating magazines and leave them at the ring and petition the local network to broadcast skating competitions. What I'm trying to get at is that you inspired this! You inspire your fans to do good things... to bring joy. You are truly a champion and a legend in ever sense of the word.

Congratulation on your third World Title.
Love
Caroline Lee
Penang, Malaysia

[michellekwanfan]

Michelle,
First of all, congratulations on your third world tite! I was so happy for you that I think I carried around a smile non-stop for a week! You once again inspired us to be better than what we can be. Your grace, good attitude, love, and courage will never be forgotten. You have brought so much to both figure skating, and us, your fans. Thank you for being so giving of yourself, and teaching us to be better people! I think all of your fans have become stronger because of you.

Amanda DuPre
Las Vegas, Nevada
welcome.to/amandadupre

[axelkid]

With all of our daily rigors constantly eroding at our sensibilities, it's refreshing to return to a universal capacity that we are all here to experience joy, love, and the richness of life. I wanted to thank you for reminding us of this.

Ken

[yankgrl46]

dear michelle:
i just wanted to congratulate you on your third, world title,fourth national title, and for being such a great ambassador and role model for both children and adults to look up to.
you always handle yourself with such class, and with such charm that it still amazes me after all these years.
so anyway have fun with champions on ice, don't study too hard, and best of luck with all you do :)
sinceerly
barbara

[rjasmine]

Dear Michelle,

As an athlete you have amazed us,
as a competitor you have thrilled us,
as an artist you have mesmerized us,
as a young woman you have charmed us,
as a role-model you have inspired us,
as a star you have dazzled us,
and as a champion you have blessed us.

Congratulations on your 3rd world title and thankyou for touching the lives of so many.

Much love,
Rachel

[eilaram]

Congratulations on winning your third world title. I want to thank you for being both a role model and an inspiration to me. The way in which you have handled both victory and defeat throughout your career continues to amaze me. I hope the rest of your skating career and your life away from the ice will continue to bring you happiness.

MB
Oklahoma

[ML]

<font color=red size=3>May the Sun bring you new energies</font>

<font color=blue size=3>May the Moon softly restore you</font>

<font color=green size=3>May the Rain wash away your worries</font>

<font color=purple size=3>& May gentle Breezes refresh your soul</font>

[NancyNC]

Congratulations on your win at Worlds - it was the cap to a wonderful year of growth for you! Thank you for continuing to bless us with your inspired performances and for showing true class in everything that you do. We are looking forward to many more years of excitement from you!

Nancy Flack
Pittsboro, NC

[Liz D.]

Dear Michelle,

As you glide across the ice,
I can see it in your eyes,
How much joy you have by skating for the audience.

You possess exquisite artistry like no other,
The memory you gave all of us from Worlds will last forever.

As you progress through your skating career,
I hope you'll remember,
That you'll always be a champion in our hearts forever.

Love,
Liz :)

[HeatherV23]

Dear Michelle,

First things first, Congratulations on your amazing win at Worlds 2000! You may not know, but the night before your Long program, a big group of your fans, many of whom have already posted messages to you were all in a Michelle Kwan Chatroom, swamping SkateRadio.net with requests for your music, and sending good vibes to you in Nice. The next morning we were all up, in a chatroom again, watching live screen captures of the long program. When you skated, and we saw the image of the Charlotte Spiral we knew you did it and we were so proud of you! You stand for what everyone needs to be reminded of on many occaisions: If you work hard enough and have enough dedication, you can make your dreams come true!

I've thanked you a million times via letters, and I even got a chance to thank you very briefly in person at the USFSA International Challanege, but I'll do it again: Thank you so much for continuing to be an inspiration, not only to me, but to so many people out there.

No matter what happens, no matter what you win or lose in the future, don't ever wonder if people still love you-- because you have a group of over 900 posters around here who will never stop loving you or your skating!

Love,
Heather :-)

[Aaron W]

Dear Michelle,
I just had to write you a little message to congratulate you on your third World title. That is such an amazing accomplishment. Every season, I always look forward to seeing you skate your programs. They are just soooo wonderful. I was absolutely thrilled when I watched you skate what I would describe as "the best performance of your life" in Nice. I was in Cleveland to watch my very first Nationals and I was so impressed with the quality of your jumps and the softness with which you landed them. I'm now making plans to travel to Vancouver next year and watch you win your 4th World title. I wish you the best of luck as you continue en route to the 2002 Olympics and beyond. You truly are the best.

Sincerely,
Aaron Willibey

[lutaitien]

Michelle!!
You are very very good, wonderful and beautiful on the ice. You let me forget you are on the ice when you skate. I think nobody is better than you whatever you win or lose on the competition. In my mind, you are the champion forever in this world......please!!!!go,go,go....for your success, your life, your everything....you are perfect.....

Lutai

[Pandora2]

Congratulations Michelle on your third world title! You are a wonderful role model & a wonderful skater! You have brought so much joy to your many fans (& believe me, you have MANY). I've been following your career since you were 13 years old & have enjoyed watching you mature into a fine young lady. You're an inspiration to America's youth & I wish you all the best in life. I'll always be a big fan!

Debbie Stewart
Gloversville, NY

[Tiffy Tiff]

Michelle you've been my hero ever since the World Championships in 1996! You taught me not to quite at something I'm good at. Recently I've been majorly thinking about quiting track, which is my life. And well all this pressure about being #1 in all my events in meets just really stressed me out. But when I thought about you and quiting just vanished. You've been such an inspiration to me and you helped me out through difficult things in my life even though you're not there. Thank you Michelle!
By the way YOU ROCK!

[maileng]

Hello Michelle Kwan,

First of all Michelle, let me tell you that I wrote something so beautiful, straight from my heart and then I accidentally deleted. Now I'm trying to rehash those thoughts. So bear with me. Michelle, you have stolen my heart. I love figure skating and the quality and artistry of your skating entertains me to the highest level. I need no one for company when it comes to watching you skate. Please keep up this beautiful skating. All of us fans here love the way you skate. Please remember to skate for us and don't lose that in this huge and complexed world you are walking into. Your fans need you to skate, you bring us enjoyment and entertainment after a hard day at work, taking care of the family, or even such tasks as attending school.

Skating for me represents technique, artistry, and sportsmanship. And girl, don't you deliver perfect marks for them all. When I watch figure skating I enjoy the skating, the jumps, dancing, the music, the dress, the drama, and the personalities that come out of the performances. Michelle you do all of this so well, so well.

But then it's your personality. Like Frank Carroll said, 'you're so ethical, nice and kind.' And I would also say humble. I saw your humility at the CIO in DC. All of us fans yelling and screaming for you .. but I saw you being so concerned and considerate of the other skaters. How humble. You have given me courage to watch you doing a competition without feeling like I couldn't bear it if you lost. I said if Michelle is brave enough to go out there and skate and accept the judging, then I can have undaunted courage and watch her perform. Because I believe in you and already know that you are simply the best figure skater and have been in world for the past seven years. You are magical Michelle! I wish you the best.

[Willowdale]

Dearest Michelle,

Congratulations on winning your third world gold medal in Nice! I'm extremely happy for you and proud of you. :D Thank you so much for being my awsome role model. Thank you for teaching me your working ethics as well as your winning attitude. You made me a positive person from an incredibly cynical one, and you taught me to belive in my dreams. You are such an inspiration to my life.

You are truly golden.

Sincerely,
Michelle Jung

P.s: Thank you for sending me your autographed pictures! You are so sweet. :) Please say hello to Mr. Carroll and your parents!

[TaraLipinski87]

Michelle,
You are a fantastic skater, that has the complete package on and off the ice! I give you a lot of credit to even atempt college with your schedule! Best of luck in ALL you do!!

~Tracey~

[pipster]

Michelle,
Congratulations on a spectacular skate at the World Championship in Nice. I prayed that your skate would be one in which you would leave everyone speechless and skate Red Violin at its best. As you stood on the podium receiving your gold medal, please know that your fans all over the world celebrated with you a great accomplishment.


Pipster
MKGA second keeper of the Kwan Spiral

[winterdawn]

Dear Michelle,

Thank you so much for all the hard work, all the early morning practices, all the hard falls on cold ice, everything it takes for us to be able to enjoy the magic of your skating.
It seems odd to me to be so emotionally involved in somewhen I've never met and likely never will. I've never been much of a fan of anyone I didn't know personally. Yet it's as if everything else disappears when I watch you skate. I was on top of the world for weeks after you won World's. How do you do that? :o )

Sincerely,
Christy

[Keyla]

Congratulations Michelle on winning your third World Championships. Thanks for all the joy you brought into my life. My best moment during those championships was when I see you smile. No matter what happen in the future, I still care about you.

Keyla
Montreal, Quebec
Canada

[MarcellaMichelle]

Dear Michelle:

I had a well thought out message written that described the joy your skating has brought to so many people but my computer ate it so I hope you will accept this attempt to recreate my thoughts!

I wanted to congratulate you on your third world title but I realized that I really wanted to congratulate & thank you for so much more than that!

I have heard you say that it is not the result but the process that truly matters and I think that your skating career continues to bear this out. I would like to express my thanks to you:

1. for representing the United States with grace & dignity. You said in a recent Worlds commercial that you were proud to represent the U.S. and I would just like to say the feeling is mutual!

2. for showing the public, and especially children, that in a time of growing egos, salaries, & contract demands, true manners, dignity, & humble pride in trying your best matters more than medal counts or colors & can lead to victory as well.

3. for reminding the judges & fans that programs are much more than just triple/triple or quadruple jumps. Even when increasing technical difficulty, you do not sacrifice the rest of the program. I look forward to your skating because I am guaranteed a thoughtful, meaningful program full of mesmerizing spins, footwork, spirals, arm movements, & other "in-betweens."

4. for sharing the lessons you have learned along the way. I think you should make one of your books a collection of "Kwanisms" that you have given us over the years. "Work hard, be yourself, & have fun." "Its not how you fall, its how you get up." After that, please be sure to tell Frank Carroll to create a collection of his best advice to you over the years too. I can guarantee at least a few hundred sales based on forum membership alone!

5. for heading into the Salt Lake City Olympics with the perspective that its about the joy of skating in your home country & the joy of going rather than simply a drive to capture the gold medal. (Not that we won't be rooting for you! but I just want you to skate well & have FUN regardless of the results!)

6. for going to school & reminding everyone of the importance of education. (I ama history professor so I just had to mention that one!)

There are a thousand more things to thank you for but I'll stop before this gets too long (TOO LATE):-)

Marcella Trevino
Kingsville, Texas
kfmbt00@tamuk.edu

[monet]

Dear Michelle,

Congratulations on your third World Championship!

You stepped up to the challenge and came shining through. Your long program was wonderful!

Thanks for ALL your performances and for the hard work you've given to a great sport -- thanks for putting your heart into each routine and giving so much to your audience!

Thanks for being such a great sport and for skating for our country -- you are an inspiration to many kids!

Good luck in college and have fun. Do make time for those football and basketball games!

monet

[lavender]

I just want to congratulate you on your third world title but most of all I want to thank you for having and maintaining such wonderful character. I have to say that after this last worlds I was speechless. I just didn't have much to say because it was just so unbelieveble how things worked out the way it did. I just couldn't find the words. Never for once did I not believe in your abilities. I just knew that before this competition that there would be obstacles (ie. judges) in your way. Things just worked out where they couldn't deny you the title. I know you have to cherish these moments and I know the amazing feeling that it brings but I pray that such a humble person as yourself will continue to have moments like this over and over again in your life. I hope that this worlds won't be your last. Keep believing in yourself and know that several people who you may not know are behind you as well wanting good to come your way and still believing in you.

[jkirk]

Dear Michelle
Every time you skate you inspire me in a different way. Congratulations on your third World title! If you ever begin to doubt yourself just remember there are so many people who love you and will offer whatever support we can. We do not love you for your many medals and titles but for who you are and the way your skating touches us. I can never watch you skate without a big smile on my face. I have never felt this way about any other athlete; you are like a member of my family.
Thank you allowing us to share in your journey.
Jennifer Browne

[Icare]

Dear Michelle:

Congratulations on winning your 3rd World title. I felt that we are the lucky ones witnessing your journey in skating for many years. Every time I watched your competition or exhibition, I was moved in different ways, and had joys and tears that was pure and cleansing. You have reached many people in many ways and many levels,both emotionally and spiritually.

Many posters had posted very well, so I would not repeat here. Best of luck for your journey in life, and most of all, enjoy yourself. Always remember, there are many fans who would support you, and love you through thick and thin, because you are you.

Icare

[skater13]

Dear Michelle, Hi! Heres a small note to say, "CONGRATS" on that 3rd world title you have now. You did what a true champion would Michelle, you proved em all wrong, I bet that feels great!!!! Hey, I just recently saw you at the 2000 HKFSC in Binghampton, you were great! And I also wanted to say what an awsome skater/person you are, you give everyone everywhere a reason to be proud, and I just wanted to tell you how much your skating means to me!!!!!! Good luck at UCLA and with your skating! Cant wait till next season to watch you defend your titles. Keep up your great skating. Sincerely, Hannah K. : o )

[kwanlover]

Michelle, what can I add that hasn't been said by the many fans in this forum? I can only tell you that you have touched my heart, and you have given me joy and happiness just by watching you develop into not only a great skater, but one heckuva human being. You have given us, the viewer and skate fans the gift of your talent...you have taken us along with you on your many journeys into your soul, and you have made this fan cry, on many different occasions. I can't describe how I feel when I see you skate with such abandon and joy...you carry me along with you, and I find myself feeling joyful and carefree with you. I want to thank you for all you have given the sport of ice skating, for always bringing something new to your style, and for being a terrific role model and sport. You have always shown grace and dignity and compassion. I have watched you since 94, and I have followed you with my support since then. I congratulate you on shutting up your naysayers who called you a has been, and washed up...you showed them, girlfriend, and boy, did you ever!! You are inspiring and your attitude is infectious. You make me smile. I had the pleasure of meeting you in Chicago with my daughter in 98, and she and I cherish those memories. Always polite and friendly, no matter the crush of admirers you have. You are what everyone wishes thier child to be. Your parents have every right to be proud. You have all the qualities to be the Olympic Champion, and I know you can do it in 2002. I will be supporting you in all endeavors that you choose, for you have given so much to me, and other skating fans, and I admire you greatly. Enjoy your summer, 'pretty girl' and come back strong and with that same focus you had at Worlds.....show the World what you have for them. I can't wait to see you again when the season starts!! You are number one, Michelle Kwan!! GO FOR THE GOLD IN 2002!!

[XPEG]

Michelle,

There's a song (I think you know) that goes:
"if i could tell the world just one thing/ it would be that we're all ok/ and not to worry 'cause worry is wasteful/ and useless in times like these/ i won't be made useless/ i won't be idle with despair/ i will gather myself around my faith/ for light does the darkness most fear"

When your fans were worried, you knew worry was useless. When the media critics said your best days were behind you, you weren't idle with despair but energized with determination. When you had to battle from third place, you had faith in your abilities, let the light shine through, and triumphed.

Congratulations, Michelle, on your victory. We all love you.

Peggy
Richmond, Virginia

"Courage is the price that life exacts for granting peace." Amelia Earhart

[njcminglng]

Dear Michelle,
I decided that my very first post on the MK forum would be my letter to you. Congratulations on your gold medal at Worlds! How nice it is to be the 2000 World and National Champion. But no matter what happened, both of your programs (and all the others you have done) were truly exceptional. Watching you, I went through so many emotions of tears and gratitude. You have inspired me to strive for what I may believe is impossible and to keep believing that I can achieve my goals. As I enter my first year of college next year, I am reminded by the strength and determination you have to balance both school and skating, along with spending time with your family and friends. No matter where your life leads to, your fans will always be here to support you. Thank you blessing us with your wonderful skating, smile, and inspiration!

Always,
Nancy ;)
njcminglng@hotmail.com

[Ed123]

Dear Michelle,

I just want to let you know how proud I am of you. Your performance during the World Championship in Nice, France was totally "awesome". I have been a fan of yours since 1997 and your sportmanship and your love of the sport truly amazes me. Best wishes in the near future.

From,
Ed

[KeithB]

...you have given me over the past few years. Your brilliant "Red Violin" free skate and your appearance of being at peace with the world while waiting for the results were so heartwarming after hearing all of the naysayers who underestimated you. Just a week later I attended the show in Washington and was pleased to see you give us a completely different look and feel and do it well. As a musician I appreciate the challenge of using different styles of music and creating the visual effects that combine with the music to make a variety of effective presentations.

Your marvelous combination of athletic and artistic skill, along with your gracious manner and kind words about your fellow competitors, assure you of a special place in my heart. May God's grace continue to be with you in the years to come.

Keith

[u2asian]

Dear Michelle,

Hi! I'd like to write and say that I was overwhelmed when I saw you live in-person in DC. Of all the times you've been there in the past, I was never able to see you, but I am glad I had the opportunity to do so this past April 7th. It meant a lot to me to see you that night - the 7th. There's an unofficial holiday I made up to honor you. Its on the 7th of every month and its basically a day to dedicate to you - our/my favorite skater. To see you on a day I named as a holiday for you, and to see you live, for the first time, and to have that same show taped to be aired on TV, it was awesome. I'll never forget when I saw you for the very first time back in 1998 during the opening ceremonies of the Winter Olympics. I saw an angel and I was lost in your beauty. I never followed skating before that but after your interview, I learned all I could. I was shocked when I learned the news that you won silver (I wanted you to win gold) but, as time has proven in your case, silver has been better than gold. I respected you more than ever after the Olympics because you kept that competitive attitude and have had it ever since.

Whether you medal or not, retain a title or lose it, you're still my favorite skater. Your passion and dedication inspires me to persevere and to press on. You skate with your soul, your very inner-being. Its that type of expression and interpretation that has entralled me ever since that day in February of 1998. As I look back over the past two years that I have been a fan of yours, I have experienced many times of joy both from your skating and the effect it has on people. It is you I thank for my best friend - for without you, she and I would not have met on a message board devoted to you. Through times when people said you couldn't make it and you "were out of it", I still believed in you and continue to do so. Your skating is so precious to me and I never take it for granted. In the years to come whether you are competing, taking an exam, studying, practicing or getting to know someone better, I wish you the best and send you all my thoughts, prayers and love.

Always,
Kot (u2asian@aol.com)
Springfield, Virginia

P.S.
I would also like to formally congratulate you on your victory at Worlds and Nationals. You gave your best and I can't be anything but proud of you. It takes a lot of work to make it to the top, but it takes more to stay on top and climb back to the top as well. You've me that virtually anything is possible if you set your mind to it and work at it - something my parents instilled in me when I was a child. Thanks for being such a wonderful example though you might not have known it.

I look onto the ice,
I see an angel looking very nice.
Such artistry and grace,
The expression on her face.
She skates with such passion,
Such aplomb and determination.
I can't begin to express my thoughts,
Those images of Michelle on TV and a happy Kot.
Through the bad times and the good,
I never gave up hope in her or doubted if she could.
She amazed the audience and silenced the critics,
She not only talked the talk but she also walked it.
She up'd the ante and pushed even more,
And now she is on top of the world and adored.
By many fans both here and there,
Fans from just about anywhere.
From Thailand to Russia and Mongolia,
To France, the US, Great Britain and Cambodia.
Taiwan, the Philippines - they love her so,
How much do they love her? Who knows ...
An angel is what she is,
Heaven's gift to spead wonderful bliss.
No matter the stakes or whats at hand,
She never skates her program as "bland."
100% or more is what she gives,
Her life is a model to live.
Dedication and pure joy,
A balance of work and toys.
To this I dedicate to her, the best,
She is the reason why I love FS.

[Wyac]

Michelle,
Congratulations on your 3rd world title!!! Your free skate was simply amazing and I continue to be amazed by your strength and outlook on life. It has been a joy to see you for the past 8 years skate so wonderfully while touching so many people's lives at the same time. I remember after the 92 olympic games I decided to sporadically watch figure skating and when the 93' season began I saw a girl who was the same age as me start to skate. As soon as I saw you skate I was in complete awe. From that moment on I became an avid skating fan who had to watch every single one of your programs because they are so intresting and artistically unique. After watching your performance and interviews I cant help but turn off the TV with a smile on my face. I too recently entered college and the adjusmtments have been immense, seeing you be able to handle this change and pursue your dreams with dignity, grace, and a positive attitude has been an inspiration. It is so hard these days to find an athelete with so many fine qualities as a human being. With so many amazing triumphs, disappointments, and quick to judge crtics out there you still maintain a sense of honesty and integrity. I know a few people up at UCLA who have had the experience to talk to you and they have told me that you are so genuine, nice, and insightful. I am glad that there is someone out there that can truly be an inspiration to all. Thank you Michelle, goodluck in all of your academic endeavors, and most importantly congratulations on all of your accomplishments!

[Lara F]

Michelle, I just wanted to say how incredibly proud I am of you. You DID it, and you proved to everyone that you've still got what it takes to be a Champion. :-) Best of luck next season with your skating and UCLA! I can't wait to see you raise the bar with some new triple-triples. But for now, enjoy your World Championship - you earned it!

[scheherazade]

Dear Michelle,

I've already given you a letter, a poem, and a fairly incoherent appearance of myself in New York after your Champions on Ice performance there on the 14th of April. But I never got the chance to directly congratulate you on your third World Title in March. That performance is one that will live on in my memory, as well as many others', I am sure, forever. The grace, assurance, technical prowess, and overwhelming heart you gave on that ice was a beacon that you are not fading, that you can still amaze, and prove that you can do more than just skating and prevail. Congratulations, Michelle. This is a reminder to us all not to give up, and fight for what can be ours.

Thank you for *everything*,
Sarah

[gouldy]

Congratulations Michelle on your 3rd World titile!
Your skating keeps me a fan! Good Luck in all your future endeavors!

[Grace]

Congratulations on your third world title Michelle - I hope you're enjoying life on the tour and time away from schoolwork for a while :)

You truly are an inspiration to everyone - your work ethic, your motivation and your graciousness is a model for people of all ages. When I watched your win on ABC, I was barely breathing, it was effortless, beautiful and heartwrenching. I felt exhilarated and so happy for you. I can't believe that you're a student at UCLA AND the World champion - that feat is incredible. I'm a student at UCSD, and I'm barely hanging on by strings! *bows down to Michelle*

I look forward to seeing you skate when COI comes to San Diego!

Grace S.
San Diego, CA

[Shallah]

I am not a good writer so I will keep this short. I admire you both as a person and as a figure skater. I became my favorite skater in the 95-96 season when you would speak of not just wanting to win but do your best no matter what happened so you could be happy with that. You have given so much of yourself in your skating and I have felt honored to witness your ability to express music through your movement upon the ice. You make it look so very easy like I could just step on the ice and take of soaring instead of merely being happy when I stay on my feet the entire time I am skating ;-) I wish you the best with your skating and collage. I hope you continue to do well both and selfishly hope you continue to grace the ice for many many years to come!

Sincerely and with Admiration,
Shallah

[NaomiB]

Dear Michelle,

Congratulations on a great skate at Worlds! Thank you for giving us so many amazing performances over the years. Thank you for being a wonderful inspiration and role model for all of us, both on and off the ice. I wish you all the best.

NaomiB

[flausa]

Michelle,
Congratulations on your 3rd World title. There was never a doubt in my mind that you would win. I'm not sure if you'll take the time to read all of these, however, just in case I wanted to let you know what an inspiration you have been to many. I know that you are only human, but you are a role model to so many children as well as adults!
I have been a fan since '94, and my younger sister was a fan even before I was. She was the one that pointed you out to me during the Nancy/Tonya saga and said "She is the only one that could really get us the gold..you NEED to see this kid skate!"
Anyhow, we were routing for you in '98, and we'll certainly be doing it again in 2002. '98 turned out to be a blessing in disguise for all of us. You have great things in store for you!

[bwheeler]

Monument.

How is history made? A thousand influences, the sum of our being, etch a pattern of our lives in granite stone.

"She seems to like the ice, she and her sister both."
"Well, let them try - we must look for a teacher hereafter."

Thus the pattern is begun. The hard work begun. For each
jump learned, a thousand falls on the cold, hard ice - pain
endured. A thousand lonely mornings in chilly rinks, rubbing sleep out of runny eyes.

And how is character made? We are so much the sum of all
who touch us. A parent's strong love, the sibling's laughing banter.

Hands touch. Coach's hands tap collarbone - reassuring,
soothing. Hands sew sequins, search for music, trace
intricate choregraphy. Hands point the way.

Comes now the monumental event. Time selects a stone and
begins to chisel a tablet for history.

Commence with the worrisome short, destroyer of so many
skater's hopes. So far, all goes as planned. Three flip!
A slip! Must not go down; dare not go down; did not go
down. I'd love to turn you on - dead Lennon sings.

Placed third - destiny no longer in one's hands - or so
they say. Destiny, however, pays scant attention to placing; it awaits she who will seize the moment - shake it
- master it.

Time now to do the deed. First yet again, beneath judges'
cool stares. Out onto the shiny, silver sea. "Let go,"
says Frank. Not so easy to do. I must be strong. Begin
by conquering ancient nemesis. Exert power! Now - loop!
Complete! Jeez, a jump. Jeez, another. Yes! Power
surges through my body. Tonight I fly.

Authority wielded, the ice yields - surrenders - capitulates.

Done now. I have done my best now. I have truly done my
best. Time now to rest.

The gauntlet thrown, others will be unable to take it up.
Their tiny flaws and missed chances chip away the final
granite flakes. Thirty minutes suffice for destiny to
finish the polished stone.

Then swells the noble anthem. Now appears the shed tear,
the tender golden smile of happiness - the monument complete.

It states: AND HOW IS GREATNESS ACHIEVED?
LOOK TO SHE WHO RULES THE ICE.

Bill Wheeler
Corpus Christi, Texas

[Rosa]

I just wanted to let you know what joy your skating brings to my life. When I watch you skate, I forget about all the little troubles I have. I am totally caught up in your performance - the world ceases to exist at that time.

You are my favorite skater. I watch all of your performances I have recorded over and over again. My 4 year old little boy loves to watch you also. He is very hyper and one of the few things he will sit still for is watching you skate. He is mesmerized and says he loves you!!!

Thanks for all the beauty and joy you bring to our lives.

Rosa & Michael Moody
Your number one and two fans in West Virginia

[Munchkin2000]

Michelle, I would just like to congratulate you on your third world title. You were absolutely wonderful out there, the best I have ever seen you. Your performance helped bring a good end to a hard week that was full of school projects and misunderstandings. At the end of your long program, I was in tears because it was just so beautiful and because my stress had all been relieved. Thank you for continuing to skate and go for the gold in Salt Lake! :)

[Jenny]

Thanks everyone for posting such wonderful messages for Michelle! I know she is going to love them. :D