Being a global nomad doesn’t just relate to one’s self. It also includes knowing about and supporting those events that help bring the world together.
Olympic torch being lit by Greek actress Katerina Lechou in her home-country on April 21st, the games are upon us once again. After a theatrical lighting that could have matched any display of grandeur on the screen, the torch was then handed off to a gold-winning Greek gymnast by the name of Eleftherios Petrounias for a six day relay to Rio. If asking ourselves what may bring us in more to the games this year from the past, one of the answers could be that the six-day journey that will be continued in one part on its way to Brazil in the hands of a Syrian refugee and made its way through a refugee camp in Central Athens. Another relating contribution of humanity and strength is being shown through the dozen refugee athletes from around the world who are set to compete in this year’s games.
While there are always less known but amazing stories of the athletes who give most of their lives for the possibility of competing, these competitors are being brought to the forefront of our attention in a way that highlights an area that needs more attention and help as well as instilling a sense of humanity to these games of giants that has as of yet to be so publicly witnessed.
At a time when Brazil is facing possible impeachment of president Dilma Roussef, hosting these games of the great brings extra heart to a country known for their culture and celebration. Undoubtedly an important reminder of their strength and place in a world that loves them. Something that is compounded by the much-needed building of infrastructure to the city through the inter-city transportation that will be added, a revitalized waterfront and events such as a weekend in April in which local kids were invited to participate in Olympic and Paralympic-themed sports at an event in Rio titled the Transforma Sport Festival. An experience that not only got the kids involved and taught them more about pride and global participation, but was also a grandiose pursuit of inspiration to continue an active life. Something not lost on the adults watching and those who love them.
As the Olympics continue to evolve, so does the ways it reaches people. Even those who don’t feel connected to or interested in sports may find themselves getting more involved in other ways. Ways such as through the athletes stories, joining their arduous journeys through avenues such as the documentary titled “A Fighting Chance” . In this documentary, viewers are shown the fight and hardship of four contenders and their the battle to combat whatever they have faced in order to go after their grand dreams of competing. Most around the world already have some level of knowledge about the Syrian refugee situation to find interest on some level, but it usually takes more of a look inside to be invested in these amazing competitors. Documentaries such as this are a great example of the kind of thing we need in order to make that happen.
While there is so much to celebrate for what the Olympics is offering Brazil directly, it is important to remember that this is a global event that means a lot to most of the world and in different ways. For some, it is purely that they enjoy sports and competition. For others, it is about what it represents to and for the world. For competitors, it gives those who have spent a great part of their lives working for it, a chance to contend in the grandiose forum of their dreams in order to show the world what they can do. South African swimmer Chad le Clos being an example, as he not only got to meet his idol Michael Phelps, but also step up to show real competition against the previously untouchable swimmer. A story of inspiration, dedication and heart that is hard to not be touched by.
Whatever the reason for each of us to be interested, these games are one of the few things the world gathers together for in a peaceful and positive way. That is something to be celebrated. That is something to be championed.
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