August 5, 2012 — I don’t think too much can be written or said about South African Oscar Pistorius and his competing in the Olympic 400-meter dash despite walking on artificial legs.

It might seem cliche to write “this is why we watch the Olympics.” But this is why we watch the Olympics.

Not very many of us can relate to world-class gold-medal-winning athletes. Or at least very few of us will have a chance to be that. But most of us can relate to having overwhelming obstacles between us and our dreams.

Finish this sentence: If Oscar Pistorius can make the Olympic semifinals while running on artificial legs, then I can …

Photo via The New York Times.