Sunday 29 July 2012

Faster, Higher, Stronger

The London Olympics have started!  My entire life, I have adored the Olympics.  Time seems to stand still as we gather collectively around our televisions and watch amazing feats of grace, endurance and strength.  We are all awed by moments like Nadia Comaneci's seven (7!!) perfect scores, Michael Phelp's 8 gold medals, Usain Bolt's astounding speed, and the 1980 "Miracle on Ice." Estimates are that over 4 billion of us will watch together these next two weeks.  Picture that - people across the planet all sitting around their living rooms paying attention to something that isn't a scandal or disaster.  For an entire fortnight, we put aside our political differences and celebrate together.  It's a wonderful thing.

I love the fact that this is the first Olympiad ever that has a woman on every team.  I love the pomp of the opening ceremony where they all march in together.  Particularly the ones who wear native costumes.  And my heart is especially happy for those athletes who are so obviously thrilled or misty-eyed with pride at being there.

The one thing I love most about the Olympics is more true than ever this year.  My boys are turning in to teenagers.  They are growing up quickly and looking for role models.  IOC chair, Jacques Rogge's speech was much more eloquent on this topic than I will ever be.  He reminded the athletes and all of us watching, that honor isn't in winning - it's in how you play the game.  (His entire wonderful speech can be found here.)

Blessed as we are to live in this gorgeous place - "Englands green and pleasant land" - makes it possible for my family to go to the games this week.  I am so excited for them!  They will be seeing our very own USA men's basketball team play as well as going to several judo matches.  I'm not sure if they are more thrilled by the events themselves or the chance to spend time in the Olympic Village and maybe spot an athlete or two.  Either way, what an opportunity for my darling boys!

And for me - the most fun Olympic moment ever?  The latest Bond Girl:

elizabeth II bond



Wonder what else these London games have in store for us?  Whatever it is - I hope a lot of dreams come true!