Almost every day, especially in this first year of the administration of President Donald Trump, we are faced with threats, challenges, etc. real and/or perceived, both at home in the United States and internationally. Obviously, the threat of terrorism, whether based on some theology or emotional issues, is real and often terrifying! Is Mr. Trump’s rhetoric comforting and unifying, or based on virulence, contradictory and conflicting? Every two years, the Summer or Winter Olympic Games are held, on a rotating basis, and, in these, international opponents come together to try to win medals, based on achievements, without taking into account their national strengths, etc. In this year’s events, held in South Korea, for example, North and South Korea formed a united and united team, although the North Korean leader has often threatened the rest of the area with devastation, etc. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could all come together, in the real world, like at the Olympics, and be able to oppose and compete, in a peaceful way, instead of the often vitriolic one, otherwise? Here are 3 compelling aspects and examples.
one. Competition, goal sportsmanship: Instead of threatening others with devastation and annihilation, Olympic competitors seek to go to great lengths to win and defeat their competition, but end up exhibiting sportsmanship, a high degree of honor, and caring! If only world leaders were ready, willing, and able to pursue the highest degree of national success, etc., wouldn’t this be a safer world? What the world needs now is love!
two. National spirit, plus one – world: While there may be numerous individual needs, goals and priorities, and a spirit of helpfulness and nationalism, etc., leaders must recognize that we share one world and therefore there must be a spirit of cooperation! One example is protecting the environment, for the greater good, and while many nations have come to understand this, President Trump continues to articulate an America First philosophy while he denies the science of climate change! You couldn’t have an Olympics, if some nation decided, they they took the ball home and left alone!
3. Being the best, versus good-enough: Olympic athletes train to become the best in their individual sport! They realize that one only wins a medal, if he wins it, becoming the best! Too often, we see national leaders focus on self-interest and politics, instead of accepting good enough!
If the world proceeded, in true Olympic spirit and ideals, there would be more will, to agree, to disagree! It is up to the electorate to demand this from the leaders!