A - Olympic Flame

Contributed by: Heather in SC

The Olympic Flame, which can be seen burning inside the Torch's glass crown, is a metaphor for Olympians' passion for competition and victory. Each torch will be unique, just as every Olympic athlete is a true original.

From its first lighting in Olympia to its lighting of the cauldron at the opening ceremonies, the Olympic Torch heralds a beginning. It's
journey builds anticipation. As the torch is passed from hand to hand, it points us toward an occasion that celebrates excellence, strength of body, mind, character, diversity and unity. Even if we as individuals do not follow the Games, we are connected by our individual sense of the Olympic spirit, represented by the torch and flame. For each Olympiad, the Olympic Torch is individually designed and richly symbolic. The Torch for the 2002 Winter Games, is designed after a mountain icicle, its flame emerging through frosted glass. A unique quality of the 2002 Torch is that the copper and glass materials within the Torch undergo a physical change as they interact with the Olympic Flame, giving each torch a unique appearance, symbolizing the unique fire and spirit of the individual Torchbearers.

But there is not one torch and one flame. There are many torches, each standing by the wayside, each with the capacity to ignite, burn
brightly, and point the way. As the torch is passed, it lights the fire within. This is true for each of us. We each have the capacity as individuals, as families, as partners in a relationship, as a community or a nation to come to life in very powerful and meaningful ways. But to light the way is not all. Important, too, is passing the torch . . . that we share what we have with others, to teach and
give, to inspire, encourage, and enlighten others along our path. What a grand opportunity. What a wonderful journey. What a blessing for our lives to have such hope, such purpose.

Facts & Fun: Olympic Ring Cookies
The Olympic symbol is five interlocking rings, each of a different color. Because that symbol has such universal and so strongly associated with the principles that underlie the Olympics, its use is highly protected. Displaying that symbol requires not only copyright permissions, but approval of the Olympic Committee, as well.

Symbolism of the Olympic Rings
The colors used for the interlocking Olympic rings represent the union of the 5 continents: Australia , Africa (black) , America (red), Asia (yellow), and Europe (blue) and represent the unity the worlds athletes at the Olympic Games. The individual colors bear no significance other than being the most commonly used flag colors, throughout the world. The Olympic Rings are placed over a plain white background on the Olympic Flag, symbolizing peace throughout the games.

The Olympic rings are the official trademark of the International Olympic Committee (I.O.C.)

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