When you consider if London is ready for the Olympic Games, it really depends on the definition of ‘ready’.
If ‘ready’ means perfection, then no. London is not ready for the Olympic Games. This is a city where people live and work. It will never be perfect for the Games or any other event.
But, if we think of the definition of being ready, to embrace the Olympic spirit, then YES! London is ready! The support the Olympic Torch got across the country was incredible! Even from those who voiced their concerns and negativity about hosting the Games, it was a celebration of being part of something special! Communities came out in the rain and wind. And many showed their support very early in the mornings.
We have shown how we as a nation, have embraced the spirit of the Games.
We are ready!
For every major event, from weddings to tournaments, there will naturally be a last minute rush. Games Makers (volunteers) have been in the Olympic Village for the last week making beds, hanging portraits and generally sprucing things up. This too is a reflection of what the Games are really all about – support, unity and striving for excellence.
What a privilege to be in a country that can host such an event. We are welcoming the world to our home. And we give thousands of athletes an environment where they can shine.
Who are the Olympic Games for?
We forget that the Games are really not about us. They are about the ATHLETES. Without them, there would not be an Olympic Games. They have not just prepared for this event for the last 4 years. For them it has been a lifetime of preparation. The hunger developed when they watched their role models performing on the sports field, on the track, in the pool when they were children. And that hunger has led them compete, train, sacrifice and strive to want to be the very best they can be. For some, to be the very best on the planet!
The athletes’ moments to shine
These athletes have spent a lifetime ensuring they peak at that very second they need to in order to win. They dream of receiving a medal, standing on a podium or even just representing their country. They are truly proud to fly their flag. The athletes want to be here, in London, when they reach the height of their achievement. This is their raison d’etre. Surely, giving them this opportunity is a privilege?
Few can fully understand what it means to exist, live and breathe only to be at the Olympic Games?
How can we be so selfish to make these Games about us?
Inconvenience?
Yes, we will be inconvenienced in London for the lead up to, and for the duration of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. In this context / argument in the media about the London Games being an ‘inconvenience, I would like to put forward:
- War is an ‘inconvenience’.
- Civil unrest is ‘inconvenience’.
- Your own government shooting at you is ‘inconvenience’.
This is NOT an inconvenience! This is about friendship, equality, peace, courage, respect, reconciliation and determination.
London 2012 is going to showcase the best of the best! We, in this country can only be proud of what we are about to witness, and share in the celebration of success, achievement and participation.
We are here, we are alive … and we in London and across the country are ready!
Ready to be inspired!
BBC World News
On 13th July 2012 I was interviewed on BBC World News. My piece starts at 37 minutes and 9 seconds.
(14th July 2012)
