Uniting the Youth of the World

ON Laura_31 from Sault Ste. Marie , October 11, 2009

The momentous event chosen, is one that I am certain will occur in the near future. This piece of creative writing is based upon the reactions of one student to the incredible experience she had at the 2010 Youth Olympic Games in Singapore. Such an experience is sure to become one of momentous proportions, as it will unite the youth of the world in promoting the Olympic values of Excellence, Friendship and Respect.

Wow, what an amazing day. I felt as though I was the single most fortunate teen in Canada. To be chosen as the only girl from Canada permitted to attend an event of this stature. Wow. And since that day, I have been anticipating the February afternoon when I finally arrived in Singapore for the first Youth Olympic Games. Well that day has come, and let me tell you, it was no less surreal than in my dreams. To be surrounded by hundreds teens – all who possess the same drive, the same athleticism and the same independence—is a truly unique experience.

As the second day’s activities began to pass, I finally came to the realization that this experience is one of life-changing calibre. Surrounded by hundreds of people of different nationalities, different ethnicities, and different religions, I couldn’t help but question the foundation of racism and discrimination. We were each chosen for our unique and outstanding personal qualities and abilities, why would any one of us deserve to be viewed differently? Sleeping that night, this thought finally sunk in; and if I was to take anything from this experience, it would be to not overlook the appearance of someone, for lying deep inside, might be a person quite similar to ourselves.

It was the third day and all differences aside, I was finally able to connect with the amazing people that are now considered my closest friends. While participating in the first Sports Development Activity, the friendly camaraderie was born, as each of us excelled in different aspects of our preferable sport. To be surrounded by hundreds of dedicated athletes—all with the same strength and determination—was a humbling experience. As the day continued, we began our first session of many dedicated to improving our outlook on the importance of nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Again, we were struck with the sense of connection between each of us as we basked in the newfound knowledge of the workings of the human body. We were all, essentially, the same—so why does the world find it necessary to involve itself in so many conflicts? If we were able to set aside the differences of our nations and participate in a week of collective activities, then why is it so impossible to imagine a world without war, without discrimination, without malice? Today’s activities brought several questions to mind, all of which were without answers.

The adventures continued several days, however, one day worthy of considerable mention was our final day together in Singapore. Finally united in spirit, our group of determined youth set out to give back to the community that had made this week such a life-altering experience. Though we participated in only the simple activities of painting a playground, cleaning a school yard, and planting a garden, the reaction of the community was immense. People thanked us profusely for our small acts of kindness, and I realized that it was not the acts of kindness themselves that brought tears to the community’s eyes, but the thought and generosity that went into it. We were able to make a difference in the community that holds dear the very things that we may take for granted, and for that we were grateful. Later that night, I realized what a privilege it was to be able to participate in activities with teens from all over the world. People with different backgrounds, cultures and languages, came together for a week of interaction and education. How fortunate I was to have this opportunity, not only to forge new friendships or visit Singapore, but to develop a new lens through which I now view the world. I do not limit myself to the one-sided views that plagued my previously inexperienced mind; instead, having the opportunity to gain experience, I approach life in a state which is open to the world and all of its possibilities. And as the torch was extinguished to everyone’s tearful eyes, a new torch was lit within us all, uniting us—the youth of the world. I looked upon it as a new beginning, a clean slate. I was to return to my family, my school, my life, but none of it would be the same. I would live by the philosophy that would become my determination and drive. I can and will make a difference.