Musings on the Olympics, or at least what people have been ranting about---

I am increasingly irritated and dismayed about the chatter on the 'net regarding the Olympics. Too many people are clinging to misinformation, to the extent that their pronouncements are tarnishing the experience not just for those of us subjected to their stupidity and willful ignorance, but for the athletes and their families as well. 

The opening ceremony was wide-ranging and interesting; if someone does not understand the tableau(x), then look it up before making assumptions that are wrong and hurtful. Or, if that someone does not want to expend the time to get educated, then switch to another channel. Simple. There was nothing Satanic (the French Revolution actually happened and it was actually pretty brutal), no one was mocking Christianity, and for heaven's sake, don't confuse the re-enactment of a painting of a bacchanal with Da Vinci's painting of The Last Supper. And while we are at it, if someone is mor(t)ally offended by the supposition that others have "mocked" the artwork, then isn't that awfully close to idolatry? NO one was mocking Jesus. Sit down and take a breath.

To call female competitors "men" in a denigrating way, or to assume and angrily judge that they are trans just because they are assertive in their sport, is just plain ignorant. Women have played rugby at a fiercely competitive level for a very long time. Kudos to the young woman, Ilhona Maher, from Burlington, VT. I think she's great. She's a tremendous athlete, she promotes body positivity for all people, she's a well-educated person (she's a nurse!)-- just because she could train-wreck someone in her way does not have much to do with her sex. It's about desire, drive, and training. Same for Katie Ledecky, who has rocked the record book in swimming events. And that female boxer from Algeria-- all biological women, all have passed the required testing by the IOC, and that should end the discussion. 

But it doesn't. I don't know if it's ignorance, jealousy, or just plain meanness that fuels stupid comments, but I am annoyed. In this digital age of instant information, why not do a little research if one is so compelled? Vet the sources, please. Or just sit back and enjoy the performances, cheer for your favorites, and laugh at Snoop Dogg's commentary.

And while we are at it, that seemingly "average" looking man from Turkiye who calmly takes aim and fires, is not an assassin. Come on. He happens to have a natural gift that has been honed by training and experience. 

You know what I am truly unhappy about, regarding the Olympics? There's no softball. 

Have a good day, and please, enjoy the sports. At least it's not politics--yet.

C