Olympics Gone Wild

The summer Olympics are on the way. In a short four months, the world will be watching the finest athletes from several countries display their talents and fight for the gold. I have always been a huge fan of the Olympics, but lately I have been somewhat distressed about the recent protesting and violence surrounding them. What has happened to make everyone so angry???

I know a little about the actual problems and unrest that are surrounding the 2008 games. Perhaps, my ignorance is the problem and if i was informed better the whole incident would make sense. However, the evening news has not informed me of the details so I will be telling you my reaction to the information they have told me. So far I know that there are some serious issues in Tibet. I believe Tibet wants their freedom from China, which is understandable. I also know China has been linked to the atrocities in Sudan, though the particular connection is unclear. However, these political issues of one country have suddenly affected the world, and I'm not sure that is right.

I am not saying that what China is doing is okay, because there are certainly problems with their government, as there is with most. I am saying that what was once an international affair that was focused on the bringing together of the world, has now become more about the country hosting the event than the event itself. I don't believe there should be violent protests against the games, because the athletes have done nothing wrong and by disapproving and boycotting their event, you are hurting them as well as China. Athletes from around the world have worked and trained and prepared for the Olympics almost their entire lives. This is their opportunity to exhibit their amazing skills on a worlds stage. I think we should let them perform in peace and find other ways to create change and show our displeasure with China. There must be other ways.