Even during the Olympics, the mundane must intrude, so we spent some time this morning doing laundry. A bit later than usual, therefore, we sallied forth.
It was a hard day for Canadian Olympic athletes and sitting with hundreds of fellow Olympic watchers at LiveCity Downtown we felt we took part in the disappointment. It's amazing to think that we can feel that someone has "underachieved" by coming in only 4th or 5th in the world in short track speed skating. Really, it's not about underachievement it's about the moment lost. For the fans its about anticipation unrealized; for the athletes its about years of training and sacrifices coming down to one race with the outcome determined by tenths or one hundredths of a second.
This has to be compared with the joy that comes from success. They played the medal ceremonies at LiveCity and we saw John Montgomery receive his gold. Everyone stood up and sang the anthem loudly and proudly. Despite the disappointing results today, the Canadian pride was not dampened in the least. The city is like Ottawa on Canada Day, except it's every day. After watching the last curling match of the day (a win for Canada!), we walked through the throngs on Robson St. It's packed and the energy is incredible. People are wearing the colours, are wrapped in flags and "Oh Canada" breaks out spontaneously and constantly. As another example, as we walked home, three young men saw Paul, decked in Canada jacket, scarf and hat, and yelled "Canada! We love you man!" They then swarmed Paul with a group hug. Yes, he checked and he still had his wallet after - it was exactly the spontaneous, patriotic coming together it seemed.
The crowds are large enough that one fears that it may become unruly--stampedes, riots, etc. However, the mood is festive while somehow remaining orderly. That being said, you can't walk very far without smelling marijuana which is being smoked openly on the streets.
On our walk home from LiveCity we watched the light show over English Bay and the fireworks over Canada Place.
We were supposed to meet my cousin, Linda, for dinner. Unfortunately, the timing didn't really work out. I guess that's just an excuse for us to come out west again soon to call in that rain cheque.
Tomorrow is a big day for Canadian competitors. While we sleep well tonight no doubt those athletes will be anxiously awaiting their big day. We will be there for them tomorrow to celebrate their achievements and, if necessary, commiserate with their disappointments. Throughout we will revel in being Canadians.
We stand on guard for thee,
The Entity
Kim Boara Alexander
Paul McCulloch Alexander
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment