The hottest conversation starter around here these days is, “Are you watching the Olympics?”

For the first three days the Olympics aired, I answered that question with one word—“No.” My reply would elicit shock and downright disapproval. Apparently it is not okay to ignore the Olympics.

Tried and convicted of this misdemeanor, I redeemed myself on day four and watched some women’s volleyball and men’s gymnastics and swimming. With one eye on the TV, I multi-tasked and dusted the family room. I knew what would happen if I sat down in my over sized chair, put my feet up on the ottoman, and gave the Olympics my undivided attention—I would catch Olympics Fever and become immobile until August 24.

Hard as I tried not to, I just had to sit down and watch USA swimmer Michael Phelps vie for his third gold medal. As I audibly cheered him on, I felt my blood pressure rising. Instantly, it became a life and death matter to me that Phelps win the gold.

Catching my breath after his victory, I realized something—watching the Olympics could be harmful to my health! Sure Phelps was breathing hard after acing the 200-meter freestyle race, but I was too. Thinking it best to safeguard my otherwise good health, I vowed to limit my Olympics viewing and resist the 24/7 coverage available on TV and the Internet.

Vows notwithstanding, I will tune in when three of our local Southlanders compete. Swimmer Christine Magnuson (Andrew High School, Tinley Park) has already won a silver medal for the women’s 100-meter butterfly she awaits the medley relay. Basketball player Dwyane Wade (Richards High School, Oak Lawn) has played a couple of victorious preliminary rounds on the nicknamed “Redeem Team” with more games to come. Wrestler T. C. Dantzler (Thornwood High School, South Holland) will soon compete in the upcoming men’s Greco-Roman 74 kg Qualification. Go, Southlanders!

The late great Olympian Wilma Rudolph once said, “Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion. The potential for greatness lives within each of us.”

Good luck to all athletes! Regardless of the outcome of your quest, you are all winners in my book.

~Chicago Mary