Lopez Lomong and the American Flag

So here we are on the eve of the 2008 Olympic Games, less than 24 hours from the opening ceremonies, and already it seems that these Olympics are bigger and more significant than any in recent memory. Coverage of the Beijing Olympics -- much of it unflattering -- started long ago with stories about torch relay protests, possible boycotts of the opening ceremonies, the pollution problem.

But if you want an inspirational story, check out Helene Elliott's column in the LA Times about Lopez Lomong, who has been elected by his teammates to carry the American Flag in the opening ceremony.

Thanks to Lopez Lomong, it's good to believe in the Olympics again

Lomong is one of three naturalized U.S. citizens running in the 1500m. I've seen negative comments about the fact that no American-born runner qualified in that event, but if you aren't rooting for Lomong to do well, then you need a heart transplant.

"The American flag means everything in my life -- everything that describes me, coming from another country and going through all of the stages that I have to become a U.S. citizen."