Parades for You All!

I have watched the torch relay on the telly with increasing boredom each passing day, which means having started from a position of disinterest, by today- day 55- I was at the point where it not only seemed like time and space had become a continual dull blur of tracksuits and pomposity, but I was actually getting crosser about the fact that they thought, that in a time of austerity, the expense was worth it when I don't know anyone who is really very interested in the Olympics themselves, let alone the flame.

BUT my best friend was picked as a torch bearer, because she is an all round good egg and has raised tens of thousands of pounds for her village, as well as giving up her time for community events. She was delighted to have been chosen, because she is much nicer than me and a joiner inner of stuff. She was honoured and touched and in the last few days excited and nervous to the point of nausea. Obviously my presence was going to be required on to witness the giant zippo carrying and my 8 year old son was mustering enough enthusiasm for both of us.

What I hadn't expected was that actually, when you are there, and when it is personal, it is brilliant. There is lots of noise and drums, flags and rattles in abundance, and banners and a holiday camp like build up, which Max enjoyed. Then Lynn was on the stage waiting for the torch to arrive, from which her torch would be lit, or kissed as they somewhat bizarrely call it. Hope nobody gets a burnt lip by misconstruing that. Lynn waved, smiled and cried, which made me cry. It was lovely, her torch duly lit she did her little jiggy run, and got cheered by the crowds and I thought to myself how wonderful it was for normal people to get a parade. To be acknowledged for their contributions, and achievements and the things they have overcome. Maybe lots and lots more people should have a parade, a few hundred yards of cheering crowds just to say 'you're great, we appreciate the nice things you do'

So I am not a fan of the Olympics, or the money spent, or the politicians with their posh free seats, but my friend deserved her reward, she has given so much, and I am sure that many of the other torch bearers plucked from their normal lives for a few minutes in the sun, ( or the torrential rain in Lynn's case), deserved their few minutes of applause too.

I think we should do them more often. People Parades. You can nominate the people you know that are nice, above and beyond normal requirements, and once a year the chosen ones will don a shell suit and claim their appreciation.

Lynn- I love you my dear friend! So proud of you today, you deserved it! Xxxxx