It’s been a long day for my boys, Grandma, and myself because like many families in the ‘burbs’ of Vancouver today, we woke up very early to catch a glimpse and show our support for the 2010 Olympic Torch relay. The flame has been winding it’s way throughout communities in Vancouver, BC, and will make it’s way to light the olympic cauldron Friday, Feb 12th. It’s so interesting to see the excitement, passion, and huge Canadian pride that is standing on every curb and lining streets to cheer on the Olympic volunteers and the proud torch bearers. The Olympic spirit is alive in this city and the torch is fuelling the Olympic message and what you take away after seeing it is different for everyone.
Although the moment passed quickly of the young man running past us carrying the torch, I’ve felt extra purpose in my day and motivates me to up my game with challenging my children to become more active and participate in sporting activities that Canada is known for. I got to have precious 1-1 time with my 6 year old son later in the morning going ice skating with his Kindergarten class. Feeling the cool air as we skated around the ice rink with Angelo in my arms was amazing. These are the changes I can make in my own life – choices and past-times that are important to heritage. I realized that things you practise and enjoy as children stays with you your entire life. I haven’t been on skates in years and it felt wonderful to be enjoying the ice with my child. Such exhilaration mixed with a sense of peace and nature.
Amazing what these Olympic games are doing with the spirit in our city – people are electrified and can’t wait for opening ceremonies tomorrow. I didn’t plan on writing about the games at all, but I’ve been so consumed with thinking of the thousands of people that happily lined the street today in the pouring rain without a second thought to weather, time of day, or the process of patiently waiting to catch sight of a flame. It’s such a powerful symbol that has different meaning and message for everyone. All the ‘ney sayers’ seem to have quieted down and it’s time to showcase our beautiful province of BC – I can’t wait to see the Olympic stories and how they unfold.
What has the 2010 Olympics meant to you and your family? Please post and share.
February 16th, 2010 at 8:34 am
We are in full blown Olympic mode in our home. We went out to see the torch and the spirit seemed to spread across the country. The kids were keen because of school and the TV that is usually quiet during the week is on all the time – so many exciting sports to watch. It is a proud time to be Canadian and proud of our talented athletes. Go Canada go!