At a time when our country could use a little unity, here comes the mother of all patriotism: the Olympics.

I've never really thought about it before, but Saturday night as I watched the opening ceremony for the 2016 Olympic games in Rio, I came to a realization. How wonderful it is to have the Olympic games fall on election years. Think about it, we have the summer Olympics every 4 years. What else do we have every 4 years? A presidential election!

The upcoming presidential election has been one of the most controversial elections in US history. Everywhere I turn it's someone fighting about healthcare or foreign policy or immigration specifics. Democrat or Republican. Hillary or Donald. Our country is so divided on so many issues. We get wrapped up in our political parties that we forget that we are one Nation under God. We forget that despite our differences, we are all citizens of the best country in the world.

That's why I'm thankful for the Olympics, and whoever created them to fall on election years. I believe it unifies our great nation like nothing else. We all come together to cheer on our fellow Americans as they represent us at the pinnacle of all sports competitions. It inspires us, reminds us of the little kid we used to be that dreamed larger-than-life dreams. The kid that wanted to accomplish so many great things and be an outstanding representative for our families, towns, schools, jobs, and country. It makes us proud of the country that we are so very fortunate to live in.

We are a country coveted by others around the world. There is something special about the nation we live in. Maybe it's the freedom that we love so much. Maybe it's the "American Dream" so many have achieved. Maybe it's the feeling we get when we sing the Star Spangled Banner with our hand over our heart and tears in our eyes. Whatever it is that tugs at your heart strings, that's what makes you proud to be an American. Not the president we have, not the policies we think are best, and certainly not what political party holds office.

So during what is, quite possibly, the most dividing election the US has ever seen, we can all put aside our differences and join in the chant for the United States of America as our fellow citizens compete to bring medals back home to American soil. Be proud of your country. Allow the pride of patriotism, along with the tears, swell in you when you hear the National Anthem played after Michael Phelps wins another gold medal. And remember exactly why it is you are proud to live in the United States of America.