Olympics are for athletes

The Olympic Torch is designed to be a symbol of unity. In ancient times, when the torch was lit, wars were supposed to end and animosities set aside during the games.

In more recent Olympiads, as it traveled from Mount Olympus to the site of the games, the torch had become an open public event, designed to draw attention to the games, and make people all over the world who can't attend them feel like they have been part of the event.

Now, it has, unfortunately, become a symbol of protest. China's handling of its forcibly annexed province of Tibet, which erupted in violence a few weeks ago when protestors demanding a return to independence for the tiny Himalyan nation (or rather former nation), were brutally put down by the Chinese military and police forces.

China is not known for an exemplary record when it comes to human rights, something the International Olympic Committee should have considered when it awarded this year's summer games to Beijing. With or without Tibet, there were bound to be some protests.

But the games are supposed to be above politics. It's about the athletes.

That's why we agree with President Bush's decision to attend the opening ceremonies. While he may certainly make some behind-the-scenes comments about Tibet to Chinese leaders while he's there, his public purpose is the correct one -- to stand in support of our athletes as they carry the American flag into the stadium.