An estimated four billion people will watch the Summer Olympic Games across the world. More than 100 million Americans will gather with their families in the family room to watch and root Team USA on.
These athletes are a testament to fitness and health. They symbolize a physical and diet regimen that put them in world-class shape.
Over these next two weeks of competition we will learn the stories of hard work, perseverance, and commitment to health each one of these athletes make.
And it's time we not only take notice, but also point out this dedication to our children.
In a time when kids look at comic book figures portrayed on the silver screen as real life heroes, and celebrity websites capture the every move of the most popular music, TV, and film stars, these Olympic athletes can serve as role models.
Kids see plenty of imagery of celebrity drug use, and the last few years we've lost entertainers to drug related deaths.
Now, while sitting on the couch with their children, parents can take the time to open discussions about the lifestyles that lead to these accomplishments.
It’s pretty simple. The best athletes do not use drugs.
Parents can point out to their children the strength and speed of sprinter Tyson Gay, the tenacity and technique of swimmer Missy Franklin, and the agility and aggressiveness of soccer star Alex Morgan.
They aren't smoking pot, popping pills, or using heroin before competing.
Jesse Owens, Bruce Jenner, Mary Lou Retton and Michael Johnson lived clean and healthy drug-free lives and they made history with the world watching.
Our kids may never break world records, but they can have a long and prosperous life by making the right choices.
Watching the Olympics may inspire kids to go out and give it their all racing friends, swimming laps, or shooting on a goal.
Hopefully, they’ll go out and say “no”, when someone offers them drugs.
