If you haven't seen anything regarding the 2016 Rio Olympics in the media, then you must live underneath a rock. The number of advertisements, TV airtime and merchandise sold for each Olympic Games is incredible. For three weeks news stations and social media networks are flooded with stories about and interviews with the many athletes participating in various sporting events. This "break from reality" is just one of the many beauties of this athletic tradition.

Lately the news has been filled with stories about Hillary vs. Trump, Black Lives Matter and many other media campaigns that shed a less than positive light on our country and society as a whole. The 2016 Rio Olympics has been a welcomed break from the daily news and information the media is constantly publishing. For three weeks the public has been/will be consumed with the many sporting events available to view, and the many United States athletes to cheer for.

The Olympics are something that the whole family can watch and enjoy together. There aren't many TV programs that all of my family members like to watch together, but when the Olympics are on, everyone is downstairs and adding their own commentary, no matter what event (as if the commentators don't add enough input).

The 2016 Rio Olympic Games couldn't have come at a better time for the United States. Before the Olympics it seemed as if national pride was becoming less apparent among United States citizens. The excitement of the 2016 Rio Olympics has been brought to the forefront of almost every major United States media provider. The Olympic coverage and publicity doesn't only put a positive spin on the news in today's society, it also is a positive subject for conversation. With much success during the 2016 Rio Olympic Games already, United States pride (whether it be from athletes or spectators) has been observed on a worldwide stage.

Starting in the year 1896, the Summer and Winter Olympics have given many sporting events worldwide recognition. They have also given various opportunities for athletes of all ages to be recognized as well. One event can give a small girl of 4-foot-8 the chance to become a world renowned female gymnast. Another can give a fencer the chance to obtain the world recognition he deserves. The Olympics don't only inspire young people to get active, they also encourage people of any age to work hard and achieve their dreams (whatever they may be).

In the weeks leading up to and during the Olympics, countries around the world are excited about the three weeks of exciting athletic entertainment. I personally believe the best part about the Olympic Games is its ability to bring people from around the world together. The ability to watch athletes compete side by side from countries around the world is an incredible thing. The positive energy and example that has radiated off of the United States and many other country's athletes during the 2016 Rio Olympics is an amazing thing to witness.

The Olympics is an awesome event and because it is only held every few years it holds a place in many people's hearts. So far the 2016 Rio Olympics has brought people together, raised US pride and has been a welcoming distraction from the many other things going on in the world. This has been the beauty of the Olympic Games in the past and this year's games are no exception.