There are lots of reasons not to get excited about the Olympics - all the $$ that could be going for education/health care, etc. But it is unique, in that it brings people together from all over the world into one focused event. The torch also is a symbol for all the people of Canada that have a chance to experience it as it passes by. People need connections to other people and as an 'ordinary Canadian' connecting to thousands of other Canadians I am grateful for the connections I will be able to make. 
Practicing the 'pose'.
