Torch Relay

I have seen the Olympic flame! I was watching a live-feed of the relay on my computer, timing my exit onto the street. When it was some ten blocks away, I walked on out to 4th to find the street lined already. Perhaps 2-3 people deep, it wasn't hard to get close. Everyone had their Canada mittens on, flags waving, cameras flashing. And very politely allowing the children and older folks into the front row so they could see. As with any parade, there is a lot of waiting around and then 3-4 minutes of action as the actual things pass, and that's it. And though I'm not generally a fan of parades, I couldn't help but smile a lot.
The requisite sponsor trucks (Coca-cola and Royal Bank of Canada) went by, lots of bike cops (I mean lots, I think this is the Vancouver Police Dept.'s favorite mode of transportation because it's eco-friendly), and then Vancouver 2010 vehicles appeared. There were a couple of mini-buses for the torch bearers, a camera truck, and finally, the torch-bearer himself arrived. I don't know who he was but I'm sure he's a great guy and probably in some way famous. Apparently, Sarah McLachlan ran it just before this guy. I didn't know she was Canadian. Anyway, my torch-bearerjogged by with his Olympic entourage while people clapped and cheered and someone waved an enormous Canadian flag. And call me sentimental, but I smiled even bigger and followed the torch for about 6 blocks.
Was it the Olympic spirit that spurred me on? Why, yes, I think it was. Everyone was so happy and enthusiastic to see this event and it was accessible to everyone. I even thought how great it would be to run the whole way downtown along with the torch and I hate running. Fortunately, the pace is slow enough that I'm fairly certain I could manage for most of the time. I had been concerned about the entourage that runs along with the torch but now I realize that they're just fine. Anyway, the torch just reached Yaletown where the Vancouver cauldron was lit; I can hear fireworks now but I didn't wait around outside to see them. I have an exam tomorrow and I'm sure there will be more tomorrow. I'll be downtown for the Opening Ceremonies; a bunch of us are watching them at a friend's house and then hitting the streets to cheer enthusiastically with other folks.

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