Olympic Theory

I just watched the Olympic Opening Ceremonies, and I must say that I was touched and entertained. The imagery and grandeur was inspiring. I cried when the NYC cop sang, "America, My Home Sweet Home." It was very emotional when they brought out the tattered flag from ground zero. I thought that a lot of what they did on the program was very appropriate. Stephen Spielberg was a flag bearer representing culture, which I thought was very cool.

I love what the Olympics stand for, but I wish that those principles of friendship, respect and brotherly love extended beyond sports. The PR pageantry of the ceremony and George's milling with the common folk was nice, but the flaunting of wealth and George's huge coat covering his Kevlar was distracting.

I loved the guy from Bermuda with his red shorts. Mofo was freezin' yo!

I think the whole world needs a little morale boost right now. I was surprised how many countries paraded with American flags beside their own. I guess when you're the most high-profile, dynamic country in the world, you have fans like them and you have stalkers like others...

America is the movie star country, playing all sorts of roles based on motives, and throwing ourselves huge parties to promote our latest initiative. Whether you're hawking the newest flick or pushing missile treaties, you're always the center of attention. People mimic you, worship you and sneeringly envy you simultaneously. Countries we once courted with alliances suddenly become the rival star for your part. We want to be the first actress on the moon. We go to homeless shelters and dish up gruel in Versace. We patronize the rest of the world with our insincerity.

Some of them love us just to be in good standing, hoping to slowly usurp our position or at least warm themselves in the spotlight. Others hate our vanity and envy our standard of living.

It's taking over...

Countdown

310 days until graduation.

27 days until spring break.

95 days until summer vacation.