"May you live in interesting times" - Although the exact origin of this phrase is disputed, it certainly rings true these days.  Whether you believe it to be a curse or a blessing, this era in our world should be considered nothing less than interesting.With the upcoming 2008 Summer Olympic Games being held in Beijing, China this year, even the symbolic torch relay can be turned into something chaotic. 

The actually torch relay is more of a "modern" event being introduced during the Berlin Olympics in 1936, over 70 years ago.  It is amazing that even with the passing of 70 years controversy can be as ignited as readily as the Olympic flame at the start of the games.

As the world's population continues to become more industrialized as in countries like China and India, the balance of our environment shows symptoms of disruption.  Whether you believe in Global Warming, the increase in greenhouse gases certainly appears to be present.  Many athletes traveling to this year's Olympics are delaying their trips to the last possible minute to reduce their exposure to pollution caused by the unrelenting march of progress.  Other precautions are being taken related to food and medical care as well.

While the athletes compete in the Olympic Games, good old Mother Nature tries to strike a balance in the environment.  In Beijing it will be a time of possible high precipitation; however a battle will be fought with airplanes, cannons and technology to try to keep it at bay.  History tells us that Mother Nature always eventually wins and balance restored.

Interesting times indeed...