Athens, Day 6: The newbie sat in the wrong chair!

It’s pretty crazy when I realize that I’ve been here for a week. It’s even crazier when I realize that I have another week to go. The world of Special Olympics centers upon the “hurry up and wait” lifestyle. There are days that fly by, and days that drag on and on. And within each of those days, you may alternate between busy and dead in the water phases too.

I’m learning a lot, which was the main reason I came to work this World Games. And, to take things a little deeper, I think I’m finding some clarity in a lot of aspects of my life (both work and home). It helps seeing other lifestyles, not just from our Greek counterparts, but in some of the coaches and athletes from other countries. I remember experiencing this type of clarity a few years ago, when I was in London. And the only way that I can sum it up (for purposes of the blog) is by attributing it to becoming more aware of the global picture. In other words, we all face similar issues. We all have sets of unique issues. But, no one is alone. We’re all very much a part of one another, and I experience a great sense of peace when I realize that.

Assigned to Games HQ, I suspected it would be a very slow day holed up inside our windowless room. But, in my attempt to make the best of it, I spent the time really delving into GMS v6 to gain a better understanding of the deeper goings on. Basically, I messed around in the program all day, trying various things and learning as I went. I did have a few troubleshooting opportunities, but nothing major to report.

I stole Reuben’s chair. Reuben is the leader of this group (works for SOI in charge of GMS, amongst other things). When we first arrived in Games HQ, he set his bags on the table and went out. I chose a seat to settle into. His seat. And, I chose this seat for the same reasons I choose my seat in our (Southern Ca) own Games HQ: 1) in a position where I can see people come in through the door, but not in a position where they would come up to me first, and 2) not right in front of the air conditioning vent, but close enough to still reap the rewards. Taking Reuben’s seat (assigned seating, who knew?), and I paid for it with the pick on the newbie teasing for the rest of the day.

The unplanned reward (punishment?) for stealing his seat is that tomorrow, I’m being sent out of Games HQ, back out into the venues.

Competition began today, and from what I’ve heard, some venues started with very little to no issues while others had some challenges. It’s neat to hear about the different experiences and stories, relayed by the other committee members, when we gather in the hotel lobby/bar at the end of the day. I love being a part of a huge event like this, where there are so many things happening on a very big scale. There’s always something to take in and appreciate.

There are some protests, happening at Parliament, causing some traffic issues. There’s also a threatened strike planned for Tues and Wed, which would should down all public transportation in the city. This not only affects us getting to venues, but athletes, coaches, and event volunteers as well. It’s pretty likely that the shutdown will happen, as there are many posters warning the public about it. There’s no official word of what we (Special Olympics) are going to do if/when it happens. Another adventure awaits.

I’m really enjoying myself, but I do miss Michelle, my family and friends. I’ve also been craving avocado like crazy (so used to eating one every day, and I can’t find them in any of the restaurants over here). Still very much loving the french fries served inside of sandwiches over here. Add an avocado to a gyros pita, with french fries in it, and you have the perfect lunch.

And with that, I’m turning in for the night to dream about that perfect sandwich.