The first week of the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics has ended. These Olympics have already proven to be a source of controversy and, for many, laughter. Yet amidst all of the jokes, mishaps and technical difficulties, some truly amazing things have happened. Although Sochi’s misadventures sometimes seem to outshine its triumphs, the public should focus on the positivity of the events in Sochi rather than its negative situations.
When athletes and journalists first arrived in Russia, they were greeted by less than Olympic-worthy settings. Unfinished hotels, uncovered manholes and suspicious brown water greeted them and spawned a “Sochi Problems” Twitter account with more than 400 thousand followers.
Sochi’s problems continued into the opening ceremonies last Friday, when a technical difficulty resulted in a new interpretation of the Olympic rings. The fifth ring failed to open, and the innovative four-ring Olympic logo went viral.
This cynicism was funny for a period of time, but has overstayed its welcome in Sochi. After the opening ceremonies, more important things began to happen. Sage Kotsenburg from Team USA earned not only the first gold medal of the 2014 Olympic Games, but the first ever gold medal in the Slopestyle event. Furthermore, the ice dancing pair of Meryl Davis and Charlie White exhibited a standout performance in the Team Figure Skating event and are almost ensured a gold medal in the individual event.
The good news continued as Team USA maintained a steady, winning presence at the games and even swept the medal podium at the Slopestyle Skiing event. In short, it’s time to get over the mishaps and embrace the positive.
Sure, there have been some issues at these games. But the point isn’t luxurious hotel rooms and flawless spectacles. The time has come to focus on what is really important-patriotism, good sportsmanship and the joy of watching others excel at what they love to do.
Although the circumstances in Sochi could have been better managed, it’s important to remember that everyone makes mistakes, even the best of the best. Just ask Shaun White.