Everything, and it should be obvious. Thousands and thousands of the world's greatest athletes competing, pushing themselves and each other to be faster, higher, stronger.
There are those who believe that sport is no longer essential to the human race in that the whole hunter/gatherer means of acquiring food, clothing & shelter has evolved to the point that most of the random, uncontrollable factors have been eliminated. Humans don't really have to develop hunting skills in order to provide for themselves or the tribe anymore, and since humans have learned how to rotate crops and control water via irrigation, gathering has been regulated to coupon clipping.
Some say Sport has thus been regulated to being simply entertainment, which I suppose is true to a degree. However, it is a very small degree. Sport is still essential, and not just for the health benefits of keeping the body active.
Sport is essential, in this man's opinion, for keeping the human spirit alive. Watching those who have been able to focus their energies on becoming the best there is in a particular event has encouraged and motivated millions to emulate them and better themselves.
Is it human nature to instinctively appreciate those that excel? To want to watch greatness as it unfolds and then to somehow, someway claim association with that greatness (In the case of Olympic champions, it's usually nationalism, but when I was young I knew kids who had posters of famous athletes from different countries displayed in their bedrooms, so I'm drawing the conclusion that it crosses geopolitical borders.)
Whether or not it is part of our shared DNA, the fact that people can be overwhelmed with euphoria watching a championship performance cannot be denied. Stadiums jam packed with strangers have spontaneously erupted in applause and loud cheering upon witnessing incredible athletic accomplishment.
The celebration of excellence is decidedly life-affirming. By cheering on those who have worked hard, sacrificed, pushed themselves beyond all limits in order to become the best they possibly can be, we are celebrating the best of what the human race is capable of physically.
We celebrate also those who are able to push themselves to greatness even if their bodies have become disabled through debilitating injury or congenital disorder, in the Parallel Olympics, more commonly known as the Paralympics which are now an integrated part of the Olympic games.
That may be more inspiring than the Olympics themselves.
The Olympics represent the best that the human race is capable of. Healthy competition and sportsmanship. Participation, organization and cooperation. Tenacity and triumph over adversity.
I just wish they could come up with better mascots. Seriously, two drops of steel with cameras for eyes? Makes the '96 Olympics mascot look good, and Izzy was horrible.
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