The 2012 Olympic Games

In 1896, in Athens, Greece, the first modern Olympics were held due to the hard work of a lot of people, not the least of which was Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the modern Olympic movement. More than a century later, tomorrow marks the opening ceremony of the 30th Olympiad.

Countries (and athletes) separated by standards of living and economic stability and otherwise, face off in the greatest leveler of inequalities, the sporting arena. From the traditional superpowers to the upcoming upstarts, from the giants to the underdogs, all are vying for their chance to show the world at large what they are capable of.

Just the chance to make it to the Olympics, it a goal in itself for many small contingents and athletes, but we should applaud every single athlete that walks into the arena tomorrow in the opening ceremony. For some it is the chance to realize their potential, some to chase their dreams, some to relive past glories and some to get the world to listen to their national anthem for the first time with tears of joy streaming down their face.

May this Olympic Games bring joy and peace to all, participants and spectators alike.For more: The Story Behind The Modern Olympic Games