The Spectacular Olympics

Dante and I sat at a sushi bar in Edmond on Friday evening, caught up in discussion about our weeks at work and what yard projects we would tackle over the weekend.
And then it mesmerized us on the 32-inch flat screen behind the sushi bar. It was the opening ceremonies for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.
I've never been to China, but I've been blessed to know many people who have come from that country and I wouldn't expect anything less than perfection in executing opening ceremonies for an event that would welcome the whole world.
It's a country that very much has worked to make economic and political gains. Obviously, right? Otherwise, we wouldn't worry about teaching our children Mandarin and universities wouldn't be offering courses called, "How to do business in China."
This past week, we were asked to participate in a survey at the University of Oklahoma, where officials were gauging our attitudes toward China.
"Do you believe China deserves to host the 2008 Summer Olympics?"
Yes, of course.
Then they gauged our attitudes on other areas, including how we feel toward working with Chinese folks, etc.
Then, the question that I couldn't wait to answer: Do you trust the Chinese government?
No.
Furthermore, I do not believe nor will I ever believe that a communist structure is best for the long-term gain of a nation's people.
The irony of the Communist Country host is that China is welcoming the world's athletes who embody the power of the individual spirit, and the gains made when people work together, of course, but the glory that is achieved through each human being who has been given the right to pursue his or her personal best.
If this isn't the ultimate hallmark of humanity, I don't know what is.