Friday; September 5

The Germans have hosted the Summer Olympics on two occasions – once in 1936 and once in 1972.  Interestingly, each of these events is noted for more than the athletic competition.  In 1936 there was a Nazi presence on display – the same mindset that would lead to a World War.  However, to me, the most personal were the ones I watched unfold in 1972.  On September 5, a group of terrorists besieged the Olympic Village and, before it was all over, 17 people died.  The events were tragic enough, but maybe the thing that makes it memorable for me is that it was played out on live TV.  Some fifty years later, just the thought of the Games generates a strange feeling for me.

I am sure that there are lot of lessons that have been and could be learned from the events in Munich, but one that sticks with me is how easy it is for our reputation to be scared.  When I think of Munich, I think of death and devastation.  I am not sure I will ever shake this emotion – no matter how much good is done by or in the city.  As I thought about this, I was reminded that it doesn’t take much for us to lose our good name and, once we lose it, just how hard it is to restore it. 

Let’s do our best to be known for doing and being good.  Let’s protect our name and our reputation even if that means separating ourselves from questionable characters.  Remember, even if it isn’t our fault, it could be our loss.

          Think About It!