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I’m going to risk sounding Jingoist here, but considering that both the Olympics and hints of a small victory in Najaf are occurring simultaneously right now, I feel justified.
I just wanted to put it out there that Carly Patterson winning the women’s individual all-round competition says something important about how things work in this world. Last night I saw the Russian Svetlana Khorkina strut, gloat, and scowl her way through the competition (and after it) with a sort of condescending air that I certainly did not detect in the United States’ contenders.
To say the least, there is a difference between a smile and a sneer, no matter how many facial muscles they must have in common.
I saw in adjoining camera shots tears of joy in the celebration between Carly and her coach, and subsequently Khorkina raising the Russian flag, alone, in a vaulted “celebration” of what all must agree was her perceived defeat of her own expectations. Her last Olympic performance? Yes. The most honorable way to leave the Olympic stage? I do not believe so.
I notice a pattern in these sorts of displays of strength and ability. Jerks rarely win. And when they do succeed, it always seems like the level of competition from everyone else increases. Could anyone really imagine the face of Svetlana Khorkina on a box of Wheaties? It is not about aesthetic appearance; it is all about attitude. Khorkina’s attitude said to me, “I’m better. Don’t bother.” Patterson’s said, “I’m good. I’ll try.”
I’m proud that I see so many Americans like this in the Games.