Do the Olympics Make a Difference?

Early this morning I got up to finish some work and turned on the television just in time to see our Canadian Women’s Olympic Hockey team playing against the Russian team who are playing under the Olympic flag. I could not help but be caught up in the excitement and feeling so proud of being a Canadian. I could feel the hairs at the back of my neck begin to stand an edge as I enjoyed the intensity with which our Canadian athletes were playing.

As I reflect on what I believe the Olympics do for us as a nation, it makes us feel proud to see every colour and race themselves as Canadian and feel as one. This is the sort of occasion where we forget about the Canadian economy, the issues in our country, and issues in North America and all the things that make us divided by cities, provinces, languages and economics. It makes me want to advocate for us to have the Olympics on an annual basis, but then again it may lose its lustre.

Having met and worked with two former Olympian medallists for a number of years, I can attest to the dignity and integrity by which they carried themselves, not only as a Canadians, but also a successful business people. Being an Olympian has long lasting impact not only in the lives of those who participate in the games, but also on the lives of those of us who cross paths with them.

Watching the Olympics is one of those events that makes me so extremely proud to be a Canadian.