I must confess that the only time I watch a swimming, gymnastics or water polo event is every four years as I tune into the Summer Olympics.  So why were so many of us glued to the TV for the past two weeks watching sports in which we don’t even understand many of the rules?  After all when is the last time you actually went to a track and field event or a gymnastics meet?

There are several reasons that I make sure to tune to the Olympic events:

Amazement

Olympic athletes are the best in the world and it’s always a joy to watch them perform in such a wonderful venue.

Great Reflection of Human Nature

The Olympics are a great reflection of humanity by showing the best of sportsmanship. When we see Mo Farah a British Somali who trains in Eugene, OR win gold over his American training partner, Galen Rupp, both hug each other in support after Farah won gold and Rupp won silver, it is a wonderful example of competition and friendship.

National Pride

As we cheered on our athletes and reviewed the daily medal count, we know that all of the countries competing are watching their athletes even if it is the one woman from Saudi Arabia or Keshorn Walcott, the Gold Medalist (Javelin) from Trinidad and Tobago.

Accomplishment

Olympic athlete’s work many hours each day for years to achieve a goal that for many ends when the games are over, and the lucky stood on a podium to accepting a medal.

Redemption

Then there is the story of redemption — Michael Phelps making some mistakes in his personal life after the 2008 Olympics and then coming back all the wiser and representing the US as a great example of a competitor.

So I look back fondly at the great feats of athleticism over the last two weeks, and then plan for the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi.  With only 18 months until the next event, I better get busy learning more about curling.