Miracle

I have always been a fan of the Olympics. I have always wanted to be a participant. But I have pretty much accepted the fact that God did not give me the talent to go. I will always be a spectator of the games. But that is OK. I enjoy watching the games. Seeing Kerri Strug stick a jump, Dan Jansen winning in speed skating, the NBA Dream Team in 1992, Michael Johnson and his gold shoes, Greg Louganis winning gold even after smacking his head, Rulon Gardner beating the mighty Russian in wrestling... I could go on... but the greatest moment in US Olympic history is the "Miracle on Ice" in the 1980 Olympics in Lake Placid, NY. I was only 8 months old when this happened but I have known about it for a long time. When I was in High School we (athletes) used to talk about it with Mr. Friess (track coach and teacher) during class and at practices sometime. I think he may be who told me about it first.

When I heard they were making a movie out of this very memorable moment, I couldn't wait to see it. The height of the cold war, American patriotism waning in the aftermath of the Vietnam War, White House scandal and hostages in Iran. There wasn't much good news to go around at the time and Americans needed a reason to come together again. The Russians hadn't been beaten in something like 15 years, they were the best team in the world and demolished everyone they played. Until 20 American boys came together and overcame great odds to beat this Iron Man Russian team in a game that will never be forgotten. That game was about more than hockey, it was about hope and the American Dream coming to life. It was about reviving American Patriotism at a time when this country really needed something to rally behind.

The movie captures all these things very well. It is well made and gives a good picture of what it was like the 7 months leading up to the meeting. I almost wish I could have been alive to watch it in person. I watch the Olympics every two years (winter and summer) and have seen many great, memorable moments. And I look forward to watching many more.

- footprints of Chad, 8:54 PM

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