This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Years ago our biggest fear was "The Russians are coming!" Now the whole world has gone to Russia, with more at the soon-to-be-held Paralympics Winter Games in Sochi, Russia. "Sochi" has become a household name.
The opening and closing ceremonies were simply fabulous. Eleven-year-old Lubov was enchanting and fearless as she soared above, effortlessly walking in the sky.
Russian music is without rival. Along with supreme technology, the Russians gave us elegance, beauty and gentleness as the once-feared Russian bear smiled and waved and even shed a tear or two. They showed a sense of humor when they spoofed us by having the last of the dancers pause before forming the final Olympic ring.
Where else, ever, except at the Olympics can athletes, families, the press and technicians from so many nations join together, cheering, hurting and feeling empathy and support.
I say, cheers to Russia. The Russians are very human. They thrilled us, they wowed us. I think President Putin almost smiled.
Carolyn B. Nelson
Salt Lake City