Every four years, the Olympics roll around and the whole world turns its eye towards the arena. Fans of all nationalities gather either in person or via their technology screens to support their home country. The spirit of the Olympics creates not only a sense of nationalism, but hunger for fierce competition. Ancient rivalries between China and Russia push both athletes and fans to their limits in a test to prove to the world that they have what it takes to bring home gold.
For America however, there is one mantra hidden beneath our stars-and-stripes pride. While we claim that our mission is to "be the best,"we are really covering up our eagerness to prove "the American Dream."
Take the U.S. Women's Gymnasts team for example; in 2012, the U.S fell in love with Gabby Douglas. Gabby was America's sweetheart; her kind smile and clean moves literally sprung her to the top. Not only did she win gold in the Team Competition, Gabby became the first African-American woman to take first in the All Around Competition. Gabby became a role model for teenage girls of every color.
Fast forward to 2016, and America is still (literally) head over heels for Gabby Douglas. But this year new-comer Simone Biles has captured our hearts. Simone's childhood, however, is no where near as pretty as her floor routine. Early on, Simone's mother struggled with substance abuse and left Simone and her sister to be adopted by her Grandparents Ron and Nellie Biles. Simone's story, sparkling personality, and somersault made her an instant celebrity. Simone reminds us that the most valuable gold of the Olympics is found in the hearts of those that overcome adversity.
Our Olympic mindset shows the world that while we may have the best team, we built it. We built our team out of pure hope and optimism, off of kids that came from nothing except turning handstands in their kitchens. We play their home videos and show embarrassing childhood photos to remind ourselves that they too have a story to tell. Something about that story brings us as a nation together. For a week in August, we turn down the volume of the political rallies and instead turn up the cheers of the crowd in Rio.
In 2016, we root for the underdogs just like the founding fathers did in 1776. We emphasize the "normality": of our demigod athletes just to prove that even a kid with humble beginnings can train to be a champion. While the Olympics may be over, we should remember the feeling of rising to the top. Because if we aren't acting like the best friends, neighbors and diplomats of the world, we can't be the best. While medals may be shiny, we need to look at the reflection staring back in them.
