Big Shoes

I never want the ones behind me to struggle. The precedent that I have set, I hope is easy to follow. Your family and friends watch you. Don’t set the bar too high. Allow failure, no one is perfect, people falter.

I have been watching the Olympics lately, more recently, I have been watching it in French. Why? Because I don’t understand what is being said. I guess, I could mute it, but I like the excitement. I detest the commentary. These athletes have endless hours invested, and are picked apart. Although I do find when a fellow Olympian does the narrative it is always good! Some of the observers doing commentary tell you personal stuff, irrelevant to their craft. Injuries, yes I get that. Creating drama and details of their lives… it’s not a soap opera. When it’s over and athletes watch the tape, I wonder if they are mortified with the story they couple with their performance. The criticism, it must be so hard on their self esteem!

The commercials are inspiring, people filled with pride. They all deserve respect. The families and competitors all seem supportive. Getting a medal is the goal, being there competing is just as important. I can’t imagine the constant pressure.

I’m sure they are there because they love it. The negative narrative must take the joy out of it. My kids joined what they wanted, they left if they wanted. We have had some screamer coaches, doesn’t make for a good time.

If anything, I am learning more French! The stuff I don’t understand is probably stuff I don’t need to know. The emotions are still there, you can read elation and defeat without words. I am sure their own inner voice punishes them enough. They don’t need help with that. Bravo to all the ones who have participated! What a true honour!