The Olympics provide an opportunity to transcend our differences
As the 2026 Winter Olympics draw to a close this weekend, we have a chance to reflect on what the modern Olympics can represent.
The revival of the Olympics in the late 19th century was a novelty aimed almost solely at providing an international sporting spectacle at a time when the powers of Europe were growing more competitive in more serious arenas. The Games eventually evolved into much more.
In the ensuing 130 years, the games have grown from somewhat informal, haphazard delegations from a handful of nations to the massive event drawing the eyes of the world every couple of years that it is today.
While there are sometimes stark exceptions, the Games have become a chance for the international community to join together in a spirit of friendly competition. In the short few days the event lasts, the great masses of the world’s people put aside their differences — even when their governments may not — to see the best athletes humanity has to offer in their chosen sports.
In most cases, the athletes themselves have a great deal of respect for one another, regardless of their differing nationalities, ethnicities or beliefs. The experience of competing at the highest level often fosters a sense of fellowship and friendship.
Nations come together internally to root on their own delegations, but there is rarely any real sense of animosity toward the foreign competition. At the end of the day, it’s just a series of sporting events.
Intranational controversies over athlete statements and stances on social and political issues are shrugged off by all but the most politicized as harmless. The competitors are athletes, not politicians and policymakers.
For many of those athletes, it is a rare opportunity in the limelight. Most Olympic sports aren’t widely followed. Few of those competing are household names garnering attention outside the handful of Games they may compete in throughout their entire careers.
With that in mind, most can resist taking umbrage at a total stranger supporting a stance they may not share. After all, while it may be a few days’ entertainment for those watching, for most of those competing, it’s a moment they’ve worked their entire life for. In many cases, it is a moment they’ll only ever experience a handful of times. For some, the experience will only happen once.
As the latest Games come to a close this weekend, we should remember to appreciate the rare opportunity we have every few years to transcend our differences and unite — both nationally and globally — in the spirit of friendly competition.
— JP
