I'm a day late posting this weekโs Heart and Soul Writer. One of the reasons is that, as I sat down to gather my thoughts, I became totally immersed in the afternoon broadcast of the Winter Olympics Opening Ceremonies.
I didnโt push aside my workday chores cavalierly. The redirection of my attention was instead an innate response to that first glimpse of the intertwined rings and the stirring strains of The Olympic Hymn.
The thing is, there was little in my growing-up years that connected me and my parents---common interests we could relate to and enjoy. For whatever reason, the Olympics was one of those.
Now, decades later, the sights and sounds of the 14-day global competition take me back to those childhood memories. Yet the 2026 Opening Ceremonies provided me something else--something different from my cherished Winter Olympics memories--which brought me to tears.
It happened during one of my favorite parts of the opening ceremonies---the United States Olympic Teamโs part in the Parade of Nations.
Itโs fun to see the new design of our countryโs official uniforms.
Itโs inspiring to witness our teamโs looks of awe and excitement as they begin realizing their Olympic dreams.
Itโs a matter of national pride as the camera pans to the VIP seating area where leaders from around the world are seated. The lens focuses on our nationโs President, or his representative, and cheers rise from the audience as other leaders nod and applaud in respect.
Until this time.
This time, when the camera lens focused on the individual representing America, there weren't cheers, nods of respect or appreciative applause. This time, boos echoed throughout the massive Olympic stadium. And in that moment, I realized that the worldโs long-held admiration of the United States is no longer the standard---and that brought me to tears.
Tears of embarrassment for U.S. athletes carrying our countryโs banner.
Tears of frustration and anger for we, the people of America. desperately trying to survive the dysfunction of our nation.
Tears of sadness for the tarnishing of my childhood Olympic memories long held in my heart and soul.