In the dVerse Poets Pub, Frank coaxed me from leaving a most relaxing summery break with the challenge of composing a Haibun about Olympic Competition.
I was there. No way to describe the emotional rollercoaster of watching world class athletes compete. Amazing ~ the opening and closing ceremonies, the stadium packed with folks from around the globe (I could not resist snapping this Italian a few seats from me.) I watched Greg Louganis earn the first of two Gold medals, On pins and needles as Gold medal gymnast Mary-Lou Retton ~ the first American in history to win an Olympic individual All-Round Gold ~ battle Romania’s Ecaterina Szabo. Watched terrified as Mary Decker and Zola Budd collided during the 3000 metres race!! And as quickly as it began, it ended. This woman ~ blessed to have been there, to experience the magic!!!
medals round their necks
our flag draped 'round their shoulders
we shed tears of pride
Now, this is a haibun worth taking a break from vacation to write! Thank you for this tour de force down memory lane! Brava, Helen!
ReplyDeleteThis is a wonderful Haibun. I am glad you had such a great experience!
ReplyDeleteStupendous dear Helen. A firsthand retelling has to be the best story. Loved this. Impressive. You were there! 🤩
ReplyDeleteThanks for the Don Peri 🍾 at the bar 👏🏽
Xo, Selma
Dearest Helen,
ReplyDeleteNo doubt that was quite an experience—happy for you!
Hugs,
Mariette
What amazing memories, Helen! Thanks for taking a break from summery to share them in your beautiful haibun.
ReplyDeleteThat haibun was a burst of lovely emotion, nostalgia...but you had me laughing in the beginning about snapping the Italian! Amazing, I remember each of the moments/incidents you remember, so very well. Astonishingly powerful really how memories flood back, and it reminds me so much of how memories must must must be made.
ReplyDeleteWhat a memory, Helen, and thank you for sharing it!
ReplyDeleteI love the Olympics, especially the summer games. Great photos!!!
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