I once heard that hosting the Olympic Games is like hosting sixteen consecutive Super Bowls. For very Olympic Games to be a success, a vast array of work is involved. The athletes work the hardest, but the coaches, officials and volunteers do more than their share. The business of the Games includes the broadcasters, journalists, print and web-based media. The security forces are always on alert status. The concessionaires and meal preparers work around the clock. Each sponsor has publicists, hospitality, drivers and runners. The guests arrive in waves that last approximately four days. The list of people working during the Games is remarkable, and they have to be on the top of their game for sixteen consecutive days. Even God needed a break after six.

I must be beginning to lose steam, because today I chose to sleep in rather than enjoy a great breakfast. I’d be willing to give away a ticket for an event that requires a two hour bus ride, even if an American might win. It felt like it might take too much emotional energy to engage a stranger in a pin trade. The food is still great, but the flavor is no longer novel. The extrovert in me slipped into a neutral gear. I walked through raucous crowds, wishing I had my ear plugs.

I think this says more about me than it does about the Olympic Winter Games, but I bet I’ll be feeling better by tomorrow. How do the workers keep up their energy for sixteen consecutive days??