Why the Torch - Part IV
Despite it not being its official symbol, the Olympic movement’s most recognisable icon is that of the Torch, eternally alight and eternally vigilant. Its fire mirrors the fire within the heart of the athlete, always striving for betterment. The competition, inspired by the flame of the Torch, proves the value of the self, and the superiority of the individual over the collective. It marks the everlasting values of the Olympic Games, and of humanity, of the inalienable rights to life, liberty, and property, and of the worth of man himself.
The Olympic Spirit is neither the property of one race nor of one age. May joy and good fellowship reign, and in this manner, may the Olympic Torch pursue its way through ages, increasing friendly understanding among nations, for the good of a humanity always more enthusiastic, more courageous and more pure.
- Baron Pierre de Coubertin
Categories: Olympic Games, about the blog
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