The Olympian Spirit

Do you know what I see?
I see Unity
of People
of a Nation
of a World
I see Celebration
of Culture
of Athletes
of People
I see Barriers
break down
I see Connections
indurate
I see Five Rings
bound together
everlasting
enduring
I see a Flame
upon a torch
in all hearts
passed on
I see the Olympian Spirit
That is what I see.

There is almost nothing more inspiring than the Olympics. It is the one place where borders, language, and culture melt away to reveal our common love for games, team work, and the challenge of being the best that we can be. Nothing about the Olympics is easy. The host country spends years of preparation, unbelievable amounts of money on it, and unmeasurable man hours. The athletes devote nearly their entire lives to their sport. But with all of the costs and challenges of the Olympics, it is all worth it.

When the world turns into nothing but one big game, I think God smiles. When people from 82 different countries can celebrate (or mourn the passing of a great young athlete, Nodar Kumaritashvili) as one spirit, God's creation is shining with His glory.