There has been a lot of negative talk in many of the blogs that I have read on this site regarding the Olympics, and that really intrigues me.  Obviously they have their views, and I respect them, but they may be missing the point.

Let's start with the symbol of the games, the Olympics rings, five interlaced rings showing a coming together of the five continents that participate in the games.  It is a showcase of unity, and there aren't many events in the entire world that bring as many countries and people together.  Athletes compete on the biggest stage, representing their countries with honor, pride and grace.  

The Olympics have also been a source of incredible inspiration and national pride throughout the years.  If it weren't for the Olympics the world wouldn't have been able to see Jesse Owen's unreal performance in the 1936 games, would have missed the "Miracle on Ice" game in Lake Placid, wouldn't have seen Bonnie Blair or Apolo Anton Ohno become superstars in speed skating, and wouldn't have been able to see Michael Phelp's 8 gold medal performance in the last summer games, to mention just a few.

These people are national hereos, role models for children, and shows what one can do with hard work, practice and dedication.  I applaud and respect these athletes, and look forward to their performances in the games of the future.