I am reminded again this year of just how much I love the Olympics. In my opinion, there are few events that can be defined as uniquely human experiences. National pride aside, I continue to learn from each and every athlete how unbridled commitment, sheer determination and raw tenacity can produce unimaginable results.
I can’t explain exactly why I get choked up when I watch the medal ceremonies – I just do. Maybe it’s because, as a father, I think it is just an instinctual reaction. How can you not be reminded of the times when overwhelming pride swells into your chest when your own child accomplishes something magnificent. It’s a feeling you can’t necessarily describe in words – but it is a warm rush of emotion that sometimes spills over into tears.
I was truly awestruck by the visually stunning opening ceremonies at the opening of the 2008 games in Beijing – not just in appreciation of the magnitude of effort to coordinate such a moving spectacle, but I was touched by the deep metaphors which emanated from the vignettes that took place on the floor of the “bird’s nest”. The messages were gracefully and beautifully communicated but profoundly powerful. The sleeping dragon has been aroused – and it roared.
I was left with a deep appreciation for the Chinese people, their heritage and the clear intertwining influences of their culture – its affect on daily life – how they view the world and their role within it. As the dancers danced across the floor creating the images of nature, it was profoundly clear that in Chinese culture, there is little distinction between the art and the artist – they are not mutually exclusive, a concept which defines the psyche of the average Chinese citizen.
Upon longer reflection, I became uncomfortable with the bigger picture I was left to interpret. I can’t help thinking – just look at what our interest payments have accomplished. This world event is full of metaphors. Have we passed the torch to the Chinese economically?
To think that this event was masterfully orchestrated in seven years. In that same period, our nation experienced a horrific event that transcended any possible difference between Americans. Our union and focus could not have been stronger. We had a remarkable opportunity to redefine our own psyche. Instead, seven years later, we have exploited our differences and have become unremarkably similar to China.
Our arrogance and swagger ring hollow.
Perhaps there are other lessons learned in the competitions in Beijing. Sad that it took the events of only the last several days to remind me that patriotism is heart-felt, not defined by the nonsensical definitions of those who profess only one view that is right. Regardless of my point of view, I deeply care for and love my country.
As all of the athletes have so clearly demonstrated, aspiration is key to capturing greatness. Those who aspire to greatness with sheer determination and raw tenacity accomplish great things. These athletes who aspire inspire others.
I did some research regarding the reputed Chinese proverb, May you live in interesting times. There is no known Chinese proverb from which this saying was derived. Some argue that it may be a curse. Perhaps there are lessons learned in irony as well. Without question, we do live in interesting times.
In the purist sense, I hope that the lessons learned from this spectacle continue to aspire all of us to greatness.
Maybe I simply need to see it played out in front of me, recapture it and believe it again. After all, my name is Thomas.
Brian Brady says:
“Have we passed the torch to the Chinese economically?”
Before “torch envy” sets in, remember that we are still the greatest country on earth. It’s easy to fall into the Jimmy Carter “malaise” trap when you’re in the downswing of an economic cycle.
August 11, 2008 — 7:55 pm