The Olympics are something that we could all strive and train for, but even failure to accomplish this goal is a beautiful feeling as we can all cheer on our country or individual athlete. For several days every four years, we can rally sports that we normally wouldn't bat an eye at - swimming, gymnastics, triathlons, track & field, etc. A great aspect of the games this year is that because they are in China, we become more aware of customs and the culture that is Beijing. For once the media is not only covering politics or natural disasters; Beijing can show off its history, heritage, venues and land, and pulled off an amazing opening ceremony.
The part I really enjoy, especially as an event guru, is building of tradition. The ceremonies and torch relays have the same concept, but customized and updated. Even the protests and controversies are similar, but thankfully the spirit of the games usually overshadows these yahoos.
I'd love volunteer or work for the Olympics in any way, shape or form. Far from 8/8/08, Beijing had over a million volunteer applications. Maybe the winter games in Vancouver or the next summer games in London would like my skills...
1 comment:
In general, I really dislike the Olympics. There is far too much national obsession (USA! USA! USA!), and jingoism amongst the average viewers. I find it really pathetic.
Rather than watching athletes from other countries and having just as much pride and awe for their performances as we do for "our" athletes, I've heard many people say they wish they'd fall or screw up so that "we" can have another medal. This is certainly not unique to this year's Olympics, though I am noticing it a lot more than I have in previous years (Could it be that many Americans already held irrational hatred/fear of China?). I'm sure that it's not unique to Americans either, I just don't have any experience to speak to that point.
I am glad to see, from what little I have watched this year, that the athletes themselves do not share the same xenophobic tendencies as most of the reporters (ALL of them at NBC) and many of the viewers.
It is quite unfortunate that more people do not look at the Olympics as you do -- a chance to spread peace and to understand eachother, a chance to unite.
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