I always had a philosophy which I got from my father. He used to say, 'Listen. God gave to you the gift to play football. This is your gift from God. If you take care of your health, if you are in good shape all the time, with your gift from God no one will stop you, but you must be prepared.'

The quote from Pele, one of the greatest footballers of all time, reflects the deep influence his father had on his mindset. The phrase "God gave to you the gift to play football" highlights how Pele saw his extraordinary talent as a gift from God rather than just a skill. This perspective instilled in him a sense of purpose and gratitude for his abilities, acknowledging that his success in the sport was not solely due to hard work but also a divine blessing.

Pele’s father’s advice about health and being in good shape emphasizes the importance of maintaining one’s physical condition to fully harness the talent given to them. The idea is that a natural gift, no matter how exceptional, can only reach its full potential if it is supported by consistent effort and self-discipline. By taking care of his body, Pele was ensuring that his abilities were always at their peak, allowing him to perform at the highest level.

The line "no one will stop you, but you must be prepared" speaks to the combination of natural talent and preparation. Pele's father taught him that success isn’t just about having raw talent; it’s about staying ready and working hard to make the most of that gift. Preparation, both physically and mentally, was essential to ensuring that his football abilities were never compromised.

Overall, the quote captures Pele’s understanding of his success as a mixture of divine gift and personal responsibility. It highlights how hard work, self-care, and discipline were integral to his legendary career, while also reminding him that his abilities were ultimately a blessing that required constant nurturing and preparation to thrive.