Still being sick, I stayed home all day resting and watching the final leg of the Olympic Torch Relay. A few hours after waking, the newscaster informed the public that a terrible accident had occurred on a luge training run in Whistler. At the time, not much news was available, but pretty soon, I was exposed to video footage of the tragedy unfolding. How much I would rather have looked away.
About 30 minutes after that, headlines included the word "fatal" and I felt an immediate and overwhelming sense of loss. How sad that a twenty-one year old athlete, at his first Olympic games, or any person in general, should lose his life so close to the achievement of a lifelong dream. To work so hard for something and have it taken away without any notice, to take one's last steps without feeling the gravity of the situation and the firm earth (or in this case, crisp ice) beneath one's feet, to take a few last breaths without making them one's deepest and most treasured -- this for me is the real tragedy -- that Nodar Kumaritashvili was training in pursuit of glory and did not know what lay ahead of him.
I am not a sports fan per se, but I have always enjoyed watching the Olympics and other world tournaments because of the chance it grants me to see countries and peoples united. I admire the camaraderie exhibited amongst spectators and strangers, and I especially admire the devotion and focus of the athletes.
It was sad to have the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games start like this, in my hometown, my often unappreciated third parent. And yet, how amazing that the fragility of life can trump and silence the whole world.
This mournful saga notwithstanding, I have never felt so proud and grateful to be a born and raised Vancouverite. To be able to witness this city come alive, sparked by the Olympic flame, has been priceless, and I am so glad we get to share it with the world.
Such a tragic, unfortunate event. It was so great to see the entire stadium stand up for the Georgian team. And it just goes to show how strong people can be during difficult times. I'm sure he would have wanted them to stay to pursue their dreams too. I wish I was there to soak in all the olympic fever--but alas I am here watching it online at odd hours in the morning! Definitely proud to be Canadian :)
ReplyDeletethis was very well said, giosy. i am so saddened by what has happened to him, but am so happy to be a canadian right now.
ReplyDeletebeautifully said, Giosy. i hope you feel better soon, so you can go out and enjoy the events. i can't believe the games have begun!
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