The world has become immersed in fear and pain. The news covers war, terrorist attacks, and political arguments. However, when the Olympics come around, there is a different reaction from the people. Instead of anger and sadness, spirits are lifted and excitement builds on the return of the Olympics. A new celebration to watch than what the people are accustomed to. The opening ceremony begins and everyone behind the screen sits forward in their seats, their eyes light up to a new start and show. Lights glisten and athletes represent their country, developing a new sense of national pride. In a way, the Olympics makes us feel united. All countries are coming together, despite their differences, to give their best impressions. The people rise up in their seats and cheer for their country, which is how it should be. Just like the Olympians, we need to “stand up to the podium” and realize that there is more to our country than just what the world sees on a day to day basis.

The Olympics holds a different atmosphere. There exists competition, but there are people to support the winners and losers. Each medal for a country signifies honor, dignity, and respect from the people. In the world today, all respect is lost. There has been disregard for people’s personal space, emotion, and lives. From personal observations with the Trump and Clinton, words exchanged between them seem to become so intense that the people back away from such heated debates. It is almost like the people have no control over the situation, so nobody can take a stand or cause a change. The words “your vote matters” and let’s “make a difference” have had no effect on the people anymore. How could it, when all the world does and says involves putting others down? These words make people indifferent and immune to all world events happening around us.

However, the Olympics are different. Almost everyone just cannot wait for them to begin. There is the rush of all the teams, the celebrations, a sense of peace and freedom as one see a country’s flag wave in the air. There exists such patriotism and support. So why don’t we show this off to the world today? I think the reason behind this issue is that there are not many people who take on this attitude when dealing with world events. We all seem to blend in with the issue and take on the mindset that there is simply nothing we can do. But there is something we can do to take action.

First, it all starts with being an Olympian. However, we do not have to train for many years just to compete. We need to carry the same attitude that is visible in the crowd of the Olympics and the determination and perseverance that is present in the minds of the athletes. We need to display tears of happiness as the parents do, to see the results we have created. We need to display courage, strength, and victory. So let’s all be Olympians. There is no need to fear the world because we all make it what it comes out to be. The world seems much more united and happier when everyone around is acting the same way. We should mirror the Olympics, and all be Olympians.