As a kid in grade school, I used to sit at my desk with a freshly sharpened No. 2 pencil in hand, signing my autograph over and over again in my composition notebook until I had perfected it. I dreamed that some day I’d be famous enough that someone would actually ask for it. At the time, I wasn’t sure what it was that I’d be good at. I just knew that if I did indeed get there, that my signature would be ready, because I’d been practicing it for years.

Over this last decade I’ve come to realize a few important truths that accompany greatness. One of the most important of those is knowing that when you’re the champ, you no longer just belong to yourself — you belong to the people. You have a responsibility to those who support and follow you, and that takes more than just a steady hand to sustain.

Those afternoons daydreaming in elementary class can prepare your hand, but not your heart.

Signing autographs is easy. It’s being engaged with everyone that gets hard.

Showing kindness, care, and compassion with the world, especially after a day of fierce competition is a process that takes time to develop. But when you’re patient, you possess the ability to change the life of every single person you meet. When I’m at my best, I can inspire someone else to be his or her best. It’s a big task, but this platform is a blessing, not a burden.

After every wrestling match, no matter how challenging, I can always expect a crowd of people awaiting me.

I’ve always reminded myself on nights like these, that no matter how long the line may be, or how many autographs I may have signed throughout the day, it’s this person’s very first time meeting you. And it may be the only time. Make it count. Make it memorable.

I’ve had grown men walk up to me and show me their cell phones saying, “We took this picture together when I was in middle school!” They still have that picture years later. And they remember the words I spoke to them. Because it meant that much to them. Incredible.

I’m so grateful for the people who have been gracious with me during my time in the spotlight. It’s not always easy to give so much of yourself to the public. But I wouldn’t want it any other way. To whom much is given, much is required. I’d rather be swamped with autographs in my underwear, shoeless after a competition because I’ve given my singlet and shoes away to fans, than going home lonely and unknown. It’s all about perspective.

Because everything I now have is something I once dreamed of. Own that truth, and remind yourself of it daily, no matter how big or how small your dream. You have a responsibility to those who are following your path. Will you be the leader they need?

-JB