Every four years, the world comes together to compete in the largest sporting events. Countries around the world send their best athletes to compete and bring home the gold. This year, all eyes are on Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We have had our sights set on Rio 2016 since 2009. This is the first time ever that the Olympics are held in South America. As we waited and anticipated, the host country prepared.

 

While some tournaments, such as soccer, begin a day early, the games don't officially start until the opening ceremonies.

With all the challenges that Brazil has faced, they put on a phenomenal opening ceremony. They started off with a count down to the start of it all. The opening ceremony then launched into the history/culture of Brazil. From the very beginning, with just the rain forest and the indigenous people to the melting pot Brazil came to be. I personally was not aware of how culturally diverse Brazil was and much other countries influenced it.

The Opening Ceremonies also incorporated issues that need addressed which include global warming and conflict. With such a diverse culture you wouldn't think there would be a divide, but there is. There is a divide between white and black and rich and poor. I feel the creators of the opening ceremony modeled the divide perfectly and are calling for an end to it not only in Brazil but all around the world. One of the speakers in the Ceremony even said "here is to diversity."

One of the major themes was the environment. It is clear that it is vital to the Brazilian life. They also had a segment about global warming and what it does to the environment. I am so glad they spoke on this topic and they are doing something to combat it! The athletes are planting a seedling; 11,000 seeds in all! This will be known as the Athletes Forest. This will be Rio's legacy. 

The Parade of Nations is another staple in the opening ceremonies. It starts with Greece because that is the birthplace of the Olympics. The host country, Brazil, is last. In between the countries follow in alphabetical order by the Portuguese alphabet, therefore, team USA did not enter toward the end. The team entered in the "E" section, as, the United States of America is Estados Unidos da América in Portuguese. Micheal Phelps was this year's flag bearer.

Another unique part of the Parade of Nations was the teams were able to roam the floor after they had marched in. This would be so cool; being able to mingle with some of the best athletes from all over the world. You would get to trade experiences and learn from each other.

An iconic moment was when the Refugee Olympic Team entered the stadium. This team is made up of 10 athletes, five from South Sudan, two from Syria, two from the Democratic Republic of Congo, and one from Ethiopia. This team was given a well deserved standing ovation. This team, I feel, brings a message of hope to the games and the world.

Was the opening ceremony over the top? No, it was simple, yet done beautifully. It was done in true Brazilian fashion, with a party. It was like a mini carnival. They showcased the rich culture, called for climate change, and called for peace. The Olympics are about uniting the world.