It’s been YEARS since I’ve actually sat down to watch the Olympics on TV.  By default, I’m not a TV person and did not own a TV for 10 years (unthinkable!!!) prior to being married.  I shall explain why in another post

Meanwhile, I am grateful for the hubby’s wide-screen high-definition equipment because for the first time in my life, there is something I’ve noticed about the games that escaped my attention in the past.

The eyes.

The eyes of an athlete tell a story.

Watch closely the unflinching eyes of a gymnast shortly before breaking into a powerful sprint to vault herself high up in the air.

The look of determination.

Then, watch the calm eyes of the gymnast mid-air as she defies the laws of gravity as she serenely glides, swirls and twists for a couple of seconds.

The look of trust.

I never noticed the intensity before simply because I watch most of my stuff from my 14-inch computer screen! And from a distance at that.

*****

Seems my friends have received their postcards I sent from Vegas two weeks ago  (hooray for efficient US and Singapore postal service!) Speaking of postcards, here is one I picked up from a cafe shortly before my trip.

Nothing fascinates me more than seeing people of different origins having a conversation.  In Singapore, it is possible to see within a few feet of where you’re standing people of different ethnicity, clothing and creed. The message of this postcard is quite timely, reminding people to uphold the virtue of respect by educating each other by way of potluck (taking into consideration other people’s dietary limitations), costumes and simple sharing sessions.

Watching athletes from different countries exchanging pleasantries is a clear example how friendships can be formed and defy even the limitations of language.

More than celebrating victories, the Olympics celebrates every individual on this planet coming together in the spirit of unity and support of true sportsmanship.