Yesterday was the Opening Ceremony of the Olympics. Creative
Director, Danny Boyle of ‘Slumdog
Millionaire’ fame designed this edition of the initiation ceremony.
Interestingly, the lead in this lavish, historical production was one of the
best Shakespearian actors, Sir Kenneth Branagh, who is himself an actor and director (recently, ‘Thor’).
It would be premature and unfair to compare Boyle’s work to
Chinese uber-director, Zhang Yu Mou who directed the opening and closing
ceremonies of the 2008 Olympic edition in Beijing. Both expressed their
creativity and flamboyance in different ways. They were uniquely differently
styles and thematic orientations; both married the traditional with the
contemporary.
In Lord Sebastian Coe (a former world champion over the mile
and 1,500m track events) address, he thanked the legion of volunteers for this
colossal task. Indeed, volunteers are the backbone of the Modern Olympic
Movement. They are critical to the successful and effective functioning of
events for the 17 high-key days.
The spirit of volunteerism also extends to the celebrities
who involved themselves in this once in a lifetime opportunity. Having
volunteered for the Singapore Youth Olympic Games in 2010, I am learned in the
ways on how volunteers can be engaged for the unique 5-ring experience. It is a
test and validation of personal and team leadership. We have to pay attention
to detail, and pay more attention to our volunteers. They are crucial to the
success and character of the Games, which is often marked by trial and tribulations.
Having participated in dozens of marathons and triathlons, I
am mindful and appreciative of the volunteers who make our personal challenges
more meaningful and doable. They express care and consideration for us,
beginning, during and after the event. It still means something special when a
volunteer places a medal around our neck.
Help us thank a volunteer. We certainly will need them in
the future.
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