The Olympic Games make me happy.

Y'all, the Olympics are here. And let me just tell you something...I love the Olympics. Whether the games are being held in Atlanta, Beijing, London, or anywhere else.

(picture found on Google images)

I don't think I'm ever as proud to be from the United States of America as I am when I watch (1) our troops in action and (2) our athletes representing the red, white, and blue in the Olympic games. There are just so many brave, disciplined, and gracious athletes from my country. I'm especially glad that NBC is finally beginning to cover the running events. I ran cross country for seven straight years. I love running almost as much as I love Switchfoot; for those of you who know me personally, you know that what I just said is quite meaningful. :) Anyway, I really am delighted that runners, and in particular long distance runners, are finally getting some well-deserved recognition. And today, the very first double-amputee competed in the Olympics: Oscar Pistorius of South Africa raced in a heat of the open 400 meters with blades in place of human legs. You can read more about this inspiring feat here:

http://www.mercurynews.com/olympics/ci_21235612/olympics-double-amputee-oscar-pistorius-south-africa-makes

I used to run in both the open 400 and the 4x400 in my high school track days, and there is no doubt in my mind that the 400 is one of the hardest races one can tackle. The runner in the 400 must basically sprint one full lap around the track. This may sound easy, but keep in mind that the races considered true sprints are the 100 and the 200. Running full out for a grueling 400 meters is quite hard on the body. Truthfully, it's impressive when anyone -  disability or not - excels at this race. Although, of course, the 800 meter run is actually the most difficult race in track, especially when you're up against girls who like to accidentally kick you down with their spikes...but that's another story...

In further Olympic news, Michael Phelps is a beast. :) He now has won 21 Olympic medals. And I'm proud of Gabby Douglas for winning the all around women's gymnastics competition. Go, Team USA!

So if you're not watching the Olympics, who do you think you are and what are you doing? Support your country and cheer on those who have trained for a lifetime just to make it onto a podium and hear their national anthem. And if they're competing not only for their country but also for God's glory, that just makes it all the more worthwhile. :)

~

"Stand firm, and you will win life." -  Luke 21:19

Survival.

It's been a good long while since I've had time to post. And I'm pretty sure that no one reads this blog, anyway. Regardless, I have music world news to report for anyone who happens upon my Internet thoughts.

Muse released a new single for the 2012 London Olympic games. It's called "Survival" and seems largely epic:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66molzUEkWI

A lot of people seem critical of the "new Muse" and cling desperately to the days of "Absolution" and "Black Holes and Revelations." I don't see what's the matter with the newer Muse music. It's Muse, isn't it? From my experience, Muse = good music. And I don't see that changing anytime soon. I feel the same way about the "new Dashboard Confessional"...but that's another story entirely. :)

Also, The Killers are bringing out a brand new album in the fall entitled "Battle Born." It's been a few years since the release of their last album, "Day & Age;" in the meantime lead singer Brandon Flowers worked on some solo songs. I first personally noticed The Killers when I heard their popular song "Human." I later heard "Mr. Brightside" and obtained "Day & Age," "Hot Fuss," and "Sam's Town" in that order. I think The Killers are definitely one of the more creative bands out there. Not only are they capable of capturing a unique American sound, but they are also able to create pop hits (i.e. "Somebody Told Me," "When You Were Young," etc.) that the masses can enjoy without feeling guilty for liking them. I would strongly encourage anyone to pick up a copy of "Hot Fuss" (their first album) if he or she is curious about this amazing band.

Finally, thanks for reading. I think I'm going to try to limit my posts to album reviews/music finds (as I think I'm better at writing about this than providing abstract thoughts), but if God shows me something I can share online then I most certainly will. :)

~

^"Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize." - 1 Corinthians 9:25-27