I LOVE the Olympics. Follow me on Twitter during those two weeks every two years, and you’ll easily see that. I have my own commentary going the entire time. (Not sure why NBC hasn’t noticed me yet.) I’ve always loved them. Summer. Winter. It doesn’t matter what’s on, I’ll watch it. In fact, I’ll wear myself out watching it, and love every minute of it. Attending one of each is even on my bucket list.

Those statements above may not seem all that interesting and unique. You probably know someone else like me. What is funny, though, is that those are the only sports I ever watch. And I mean ever. Being from Texas originally, and from the South almost my whole life, I’m strange in my circles that I don’t like football, and frankly, I don’t even know the rules.

But the Olympics—well, they are a whole other thing entirely. I really wish life were more like the Olympics. And here are just a few reasons why:

Togetherness. For those two weeks every two years, we are #TeamUSA. Our political party, race, religion, circumstances, class, etc., don’t matter. We are all one under the red, white and blue flag. We raise our voices and cheer in unison. We celebrate together. We mourn our losses together. We’re the United States, and I’m never more proud of us.

Sportsman-like conduct. Sure, you see some ego from time-to-time. But overall, these athletes see each other year-round and have friends from other countries. So you see them not only congratulating those on their own team, but the winners from other teams. And let’s face it, no matter where you finish, if you’re good enough to be at the Olympics, you deserve a pat on the back.

United Nations. The world stops to watch the Olympics. Leaders are on their best behavior, and good will is in abundance. I even love watching the Parade of Nations in the Opening Ceremony. It’s so awesome to see athletes marching with the pride of their home country, waving to those in the stands and those back home. I think it’s the best showing of the United Nations we’ll ever see. We are one world, but we too often forget it.

Competition. I’m not one of those “everyone wins” type people. We learn when we win, and we learn more when we lose. Competition is good for us. We push ourselves harder when someone is racing us. We only know what a winner looks like when there’s something else to compare it to. Competition keeps things moving forward.

The best. The Olympic athletes are the best at what they do. And more than anything else, what they do is inspire me. I was telling a friend the other day that watching the Olympics reminds me of watching Cirque du Soliel—it’s amazing to see what the human body can do. They are incredible. I’m delighted to celebrate them.

Stories. I love the athlete profiles, learning about them, their homes, their families and friends. It doesn’t matter if they’re American or from somewhere else. Everyone has an interesting story—you, me and everyone you see on the street or on TV. It’s such a small window that we get to see into their lives, but it feels like such a privilege to witness. And…it really helps me choose who to root for. 😉

That’s why I love the Olympics, and think every day should have a touch more of that spirit. What about you?