The pressures of sportsmen

Liu Xiang's withdrawal from his 110m hurdle race was all over the news and there were mixed reviews over his move.

There were fewer sympathizers with his predicament. Those who disregarded his feelings even questioned the authenticity of his injury. I think that was rather callous. I doubt he was a coward who did not want to lose in front of his countrymen. His injury was definitely causing him pain as apparent from the pictures. To quit in such a fashion is a form of courage and he was a hero. He ran the risk of being labelled in a negative way but went ahead with his decision. I believe he was the most affected of all when that move was carried out.

I know that the Chinese people have a deep love for their country and will even die for it. However, I think it is unfair to him to be expected to be paralyzed while running for China. I think he still has more chances to run for China in future with this withdrawal. If he had continued in the race, it would be the people's fault for making him paralyzed and he would not be able to compete in future. Who would be their athlete hero then? I can imagine the pressure, despondency and guilt he is facing at this moment. He had trained for the Olympics for 4 years and this had to happen to him. His injury had to flare up again. Poor him.

Sometimes people just focus on pointing their fingers at others without lifting their own. They obviously cannot do better in the same activity even if they want to lift their own. It is also seen in church politics and I know some people like that, sad to say.