Vancouver Olympics, not just a competition

The olympics have officially come to a close, and for the first time I am not looking at them as just a sporting event the world competes in. It used to seem like just a war without the weapons. But its felt like something completely opposite this time around. Right from the world standing behind the Georgians after the tragic loss of their luger, to the opening ceremonies and the praise on Canada from other countries for what they put on, to when the world poured out their support for Joannie as she skated after the loss of her mother. When the Canadians and US both won in womens bobsledding, Canada's gold and silver stood on the gold platform with the US's bronze medalists. They looked like friends, happy for one anothers accomplishments. Sure we rivaled on the hockey rink, but I think this Olympics is more about the world coming together to show what they can do, rather than compete. When Germany had their upset in bobsledding, I really felt for them, they were good. South Korea was disqualified in the relay, and that is so unfortunate after such a great skate. I am proud to be Canadian, and what our athletes have done is beyond inspiring. At the same time, there is so much greatness from around the globe, whose talents and achievements are just as inspiring. Amazing figure skaters and skiers from Europe that deserve to be seen, awesome snowboarders from the US and Australia deserve the same. And through the Olympics all this amazing talent and greatness can be showcased. We all cheered as one for the world, sure we may have yelled 'Go Canada' or 'Team Usa', but we were cheering for the same end result. While there are wars going on, some of the countries fighting in a war are represented at an event that is so cultural, and prideful, and unifying. With the Olympics we all have one common goal that unites us. The athletes push each other, daring one another to be great. One country has one score or time, and that pushes another to their full potential to reach above that. I wish the world could work together everyday, makes more sense than war against each other, knocking countries down.

The Olympics opened by Canada showing the world what our country has to offer, and what we are proud of. Our culture, our music, our people. It was beautiful, and very well represented. Much of it was on a serious note, and some minor glitches. I think the most amusing thing was the end of the closing ceremonies. Canada mocked itself in front of the world. Turning the opening mishap in to a joke, and bringout dancing mounties, giant beavers, and flying moose. Most people only mock themselves in front of friends, people who understand them, people they are comfortable with. I think after the 17 days of ups and downs, sharing triumphs and achievements, grieving with those who had suffered, the world became closer. And what better way to see our friends off, than a showcase of Canada's stereotypes and moose hats for all! All that was missing was the beer and cigars!