The Olympic games have always been something that represents unity, acceptance, and joining together of the world. The past few years in between the previous olympic games, the world has fallen into turmoil.

Countries around the world have been affected by terrorism, war, and lack of sufficiency. Everything has changed and the question of when things will return back to normal is permanently up in the air. That is why this year, the summer 2016 olympics, should be appreciated a bit more than usual.

The opening ceremony signifies a beginning of the month of peace. The countries around the world come together on the world’s stage to compete fairly. “Fair” is not a word we hear often in the media anymore. If it is present, it usually follows after “not”.

During the olympics, countries compete to win in a manner that doesn’t involve deaths, mass murders, or bombings. We are finally able to come out on top without having to lose others. With the recent threats of terrorism occurring so much more frequently, we need to hope that this time the world’s reunion will continue to be peaceful.

I think this year's olympics could possibly be a turning point. With the conjoining of the world's greatest and strongest countries, it is my hope that people are reminded of what peace can look like. There will always be people out to get others in the world. The Olympics should remind people that not only is that unnecessary, but there are many other mature and safe ways to represent a countries strength and dominance. The Olympics is a prime example of how countries can portray their prosperous and successful communities.

Countries with great social programs, clean water, and a land fulfilled with achievement should demonstrate how the other not so fortunate countries can get there too. With hard work and determination, anyone can get anywhere. Some Olympians represent their countries alone, coming from not so great situations. If they can show their country that anything can be achieved, then maybe countries will be inspired and continue their long and hopefully prosperous journey to development.

It is so often that jealously plays into the world's problems. Under developed countries so often create anger and war between countries that are developed. If both countries can have olympic champions, then why can't we all have a working government? I believe that the Olympics should be a time to remember what a wonderful world of possibilities we live in. Anything can be achieved. So let us take this time of peace and excitement to stop the war, and come together to enjoy the games.