Although fencing is a sport of aggression, Eyre has found that demonizing her opponents is counterproductive. "The more I respect my opponent, the more I succeed," she says. "Anger doesn't work for me. When I'm irritated with an opponent, my body becomes weak. So I've learned to cultivate good feelings. When I'm feeling happy and grateful, everything's lined up and I fence from a position of strength."
Cherry Hill psychiatrist Mary Ann Ager, who produces children's books about attention deficit disorder that Eyre illustrates, says of her friend and business partner: "When I watch Jane fence, she is so elegant and respectful of each opponent. Each match is a meditation.
"I love the fact she often competes just so the younger women can earn a ranking. She consistently strives to do things right, to do well and to do good, always quietly and humbly. She's a key person in developing our kids, especially girls who hope to excel in fencing so they can gain entree to a top college."
What sustains Eyre's ambition and enthusiasm is the belief that she's unfinished. "I know many people my age who have just stopped. They think their lives are over. It's so sad," Eyre says. "I intend to keep growing and expanding." If fate decrees, she'll fence from a wheelchair someday, Eyre vows, and paint with a brush between her teeth.
"Don't be afraid to try new things, to stretch, to go beyond your comfort level," she advises. "Find your passion, whatever it is, and don't stop looking for it, because it's never too late."
Contact staff writer Art Carey at 215-854-5606 or acarey@phillynews.com.
