THE PURPOSES OF the Olympic Games are to foster the ideal of a sound mind in a sound body and to promote friendship among nations.

The Olympic Motto is Citius, Altius, Fortius, which is Latin for Faster, Higher, Braver (or Stronger).

The Olympic Creed is, "The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win but to take part, just as the most important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle. The essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well."

The Olympian Vow is spoken by a chosen athlete, who takes in on behalf of all participating athletes during the Opening Ceremonies. It goes, "In the name of all competitors, I promise that we shall take part in these Olympic Games, respecting and abiding by the rules which govern them, in the true spirit of sportsmanship, for the glory of sport and the honor of our teams."

Life can be lived with the Olympic Spirit — with good sportsmanship, with goodwill toward all nations and people, with the commitment to take part in life, to give your best, to play with honor, and to be better for it.