In Theory:

The Olympics offers the very best of athleticism and sportsmanship from all over the world. The XXI Winter Olympic Games will feature athletes from all over the world, including Africa, North and Central America, Europe and Asia. What are your thoughts as the Olympics enters its second week of competition? What do you believe the Olympics means to the world?

?

As the XXI Winter Olympics enters its second week, I believe that it symbolizes the best of diversity and unity among the nations. Each country, on a personal level, has unique pride in the giftedness and skill of their athletes. Even individuals who are not athletic themselves, or normally do not observe televised athletic events, may tune in to see their country represented and cheer them on.

On a united level, I believe most countries can appreciate the skill of athletes who are superior to others in certain disciplines, even while cheering for their own. When the Olympics takes place, I find myself rooting for the United States, but also giving favor to outstanding athletes from other countries. It is a time of appreciation of athletic giftedness on a whole, while giving support for our own country.

In Los Angeles, where there is such diversity, it can be enjoyable to be around people from other countries who exhibit the pride they have for their culture. I think that the Olympics can bring us together as people, enjoying the competitions as a whole, while taking pleasure in our own.

The Olympics offer the very best of athleticism from all over the world. The Olympic Games represent satisfaction and agreeability among our cultures — as together we witness the best of sportsmanship.

THE REV. KIMBERLIE ZAKARIAN

La Vie Counseling Center in Pasadena

?

As an introvert who prefers the comfort of a cozy dinner with friends to the cacophony of a stadium filled with zealous sports fans, I’ve always had a hard time relating to all the hubbub around professional sports.

And then there’s all the time and money that goes into ever refining and exaggerating the capabilities of human bodies which, while intriguing and even awe-inspiring, are an unrealistic goal for the rest of us mere mortals. With that said, it’s hard not to get excited about the Olympics! Where else do we see such a willingness to look beyond the differences of nationality, religion and politics, toward an ideal of human perfection, if not improvement?