What I like about the Olympics.
Is the absolute joy in someone’s face when they win.
They may not have even won gold. A win for some of these athletes is being there. For others it may be personal bests, or national bests, or that bronze, silver or gold.
I love the respect shown from one human being to another, cultures being embraced, differences being celebrated. And competition leading to celebration not battle.
There is no shame in loss. Look how much work and effort went into getting there. You compete with the best. Because you are the best.
I love cheering for my country. But have cheered for other countries and other athletes because they pull at my emotions. My innate desire to see the underdog go against staggering odds, and win. Or place. Or be thrilled at their personal victory, whatever it is.
I sit comfortably in my place in the world when I see individuals on the world screen demonstrate class, humility and courage.
What I like about the Olympics is the proof, the exhibition, the determination of people to come together from around the world to compete. To share. To prevail. To thrill at the experience of being together.
What I don’t like about the Olympics, is that it is an event.
And not a permanent state of our existence.
But I still love, that the Olympics give us hope.
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