Kumaritashivili Deserves Dignity!

Bob Greene of CNN, author of "Late Edition: Love Story" wrote Sunday, February12, that the "Olympics Spirit fails test."

Greene criticizes the Olympics organizing committee and the International Luge Federation, for releasing a repugnant official statement, on the death of Kumaritashivili.

It was indeed a no-no for the committee to blame the deceased for his tragic death. By doing that, it's not only that they're adding more insult to an injury, but, more of like taking Kumaritashivili's life all over again.

The public relations leg of the committee has a part to blame too. They should have been more careful in releasing the statement.Although they have the responsibility to let the world knows the result of the investigation, they should have not resorted in seemingly washing their hands, and pointed finger to someone, who can no longer speak for himself.

If the Olympics Organizing Committee wants to clear the death of Nodar, they should have let the law enforcement took care of it completely; to do the probe and release the statement at the same time. They should have spared Nodar some dignity and have been more considerate on bereaved family's feeling.

Now, many wonder if those folks have family, or if they've never experience loss to be that inconsiderate. Or if ethics were really just at large, that they've been careless in tainting the Olympics spirit? Regardless, Nodar's family should not take this lightly.

Bob Greene sighted that "what if" the 2,500 athletes from 82 countries at the Winter Games had stood together and announced politely, in their most respectful way "we will not compete in these Olympics until the organizing committee issues a public apology for what they have done to the memory of our fellow athlete. None of us, in any sport, will show up at the venues. You will apologize for what you said about Nodar; you will tell his family you are sorry that you blamed him for dying. Once you have done that, the games can go on. Until you have done it, the television cameras can show pictures of empty ice rinks, empty ski courses, and empty luge facilities. You may own the Olympics, but we are the Olympians."

Too bad it was just an insight. Some made little statement, here and there but, none of them really practically stood for Nodar. Maybe, it's inevitable? Since, all of them prepared all their lives, just to get to the Olympics. And, for that, I feel sorry for his family, his parents. I hope that they God would comfort them from such a tragic loss, and that may He give them the wisdom and strength to pursue justice for Nodar.

My deepest condolences to the bereaved family. And, may Nodar enjoy all the gold medals heaven has for him and finds everlasting peace in the arms of his Creator!