Built into our theology is the reality that defeat in life competes with pretty favorable odds. We live in a world and society too complex for our spiritual, moral, and intellectual development. The result is a sad state of inequalities, injustice, and a trail of wreckage through history. I wonder if the Olympics function more like a distraction from reality versus the peace making catalyst hoped for. Obviously, the Olympics didn't stop Russia and Georgia from pounding each other with artillery.

Whatever meaning and impact the Olympics carry, one consistent theme of the Olympics is the almost relentless imagery of fine tuned physics and the sweetness of victory. One of my favorite features of NBC's coverage is their excellent photo gallery. Photographs of sports are a strange form of documentation. Because sports are based in movement, still imagery often has an unreal quality. Gymnasts become suspended in air, and runner hover over the ground mid stride. What does work is the ability to capture the moment of glory when a swimmer pumps his fist in the air, or a runner lifts their flag above their head in victory. Those are the images that define the Olympics.

Then there are the images of defeat, like the above image of Liu Xiang walking off the track after injuring his Achilles tendon. I found this image particularly stunning because he walks towards a wall of Chinese faces, seemingly confronted by the weight of their expectations and disappointment. I wonder how equipped he is for the impact of his injury? Has his culture, faith, and relationships prepared him equally for this moment in addition to pushing him towards greatness?

These images of defeat should challenge us. As we reach higher, clutching for success, are we preparing our hearts for disappointment? Can we look at the images of defeat, or are we more comfortable with the inspiration that victory produces? During this Olympic season I have made a conscious habit to pay attention to the swimmers and runners in the back of the pack, and to balance all of the excitement of victory with the heart ache and disappointment of defeat. For every Gold, Silver and Bronze Medal there was someone in last place.