For the next two weeks, I expect to experience as much of an emotional roller coaster as a room full of PMSing women watching tear-jerker movies.

The Olympics are on.   Here, a gagillion miles away from Beijing, connected through the television, I'll celebrate the grand achievements and feel my heart twist in my chest when someone falls.

I don't know how the parents of these young people sit in the stands and watch their children compete in the International spotlight.  I can barely stand to watch for fear that someone will slip from the uneven parallel bars, crash their bicycle, or hit the diving board on the way down.

Last night, Michael Phelps won his first gold medal of these games.  Watching his mother's face when he won his race, seeing the expression on his when he was awarded his medal, brought tears to my eyes, too.

During the games, I hate when controversy crops up.  Right now, I don't want to think about the human rights abuses in China.   I don't want to think about performance-enhancing drugs or age-qualifications.  (Although, if some of those Chinese gymnasts are 16, I'm Marilyn Monroe.)

The idealist in me wants only to enjoy watching dedicated, talented athletes reach out and grab their dreams.  I want to experience the thrill of their victories, cheer for them, and applaud from my living room.

I particularly enjoy when the athletes who aren't in the marquee sports excell.  Loads of cheers and applause for the U.S. Women who swept the medals in the individual sabre event.

How many of us ever heard of the names Mariel Zagunis (gold), Sada Jacobson (silver), and Becca Ward (bronze)?

Former President George H.W. Bush attended the matches.  Afterward, he handed his handkerchief to one of the women who cried joyful tears after her win.

Said Zagunis afterward, "We couldn't have asked for a better result today, three American flags being raised."

With moments like that, I need someone to hand me a handkerchief, too.

 

Did you see that men's relay last night? nail biter! I screamed when the US guy touched the wall first. What a race. I'm enjoying Dara Torres, too. My brother swam with her in college. An inspiration to everyone who thinks they're too old to do something.

Hi Mary, There's no Marilyn in your future - sorry. One of the Chinese adoption Yahoo groups I follow is by a woman who lives in China with her Chinese daughter. Years ago her daughter was in the gymnastics institute with the Olympic Gymnasts. The Olympic Gymnasts were 4-6 yrs old and her daughter was 9-10. Jane's Daughter is now 15. Mmmmmm (She's posted pictures.) As much as I am learning to love China, I just don't understand the need to cheat by an entire country. Not to mention the damage they are doing to those little girls. Also, did you hear about the little girl in the opening ceremonies? See you soon,
Lori