I have been watching the Olympic figure skating championships. I always vow not too watch but somehow I get sucked in. It plays out like a soap opera with stories of sacrifice, dedication and glory.
The Canadian skater Joannie Rochette lost her mom to a heart attack two days before her short program in skating was to begin. Her decision was to skate for her Mom. When she completed the short program successfully, there wasn't a dry eye in the house. Her Dad was in the stands with tears flowing down his cheeks, Joannie was crying and trying to "keep it together" and every Mom and Dad watching the telecast got choked up. What was remarkable is that Joannie was able to stay focussed and execute with precision. She was in third place after the preliminaries.
Last night, Joannie needed to complete the competition with the longer free skate program. She seemed more composed and excuted an excellent program. There were still tears but you could tell that there was more resolve to "skate for her Mom". When Joannie finished she blew a kiss towards the heavens thanking Mom. Joannie got a bronze medal and all Canada was proud of the effort. No she didn't get the gold. She skated the performance of her life to the best of her ability for someone she loved. What more is there?
Much of the Olympic story is about glory and big money. There are times when the human element of competition comes shining through. The big winner was Joannie and her heart felt effort. Her Mom was watching.
Sometimes good things happen to good people.
Love,
Dad