I’ve been enjoying watching the Olympic trials this summer. Maybe others have, too.

The amount of skill and strength doesn’t come easily. Each person has his or her own story, challenges and inspiration. There is some jostling and trash talk, but the playing field is level, and the start and finish lines are equal.

Many years ago, I qualified for the Olympic trials. I ran at 5 every morning and, then, after work, ran countless miles, day after day, rain, snow or shine. After years of training, I ran a qualifying time at the New Orleans marathon. A week later, I received a letter from the U.S. Olympic Committee that my run would not be recognized – not because of the timing or length of the course, but because the organizers of the marathon had not paid enough money to the USOC. I wondered, “Why was this all about the money?”

I did run another marathon in qualifying time, resulting in an injury that ended my Olympic dreams.

Our elections are an uneven playing field: gerrymandering, foul play and money have poisoned democracy and cooperation in our legislatures.

I still celebrate level playing fields. And I still vote.

Kurt Lauenstein, M.D.
Portland

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