The games of the 29th Olympiad are beginning in Beijing, China this weekend, a worldwide spectacle that celebrates the best in sports.

An event that brings the world's best together.

However, in the months leading up to the Beijing Olympics, it has been hard to balance the true spirit of the games against the history of China's human rights record.

Through the months leading up to the Olympics, the running of the Olympic torch around the world was protested by many who questioned, among other things, China's record in Tibet.

Political issues have crossed into the Olympics on many occasions.

40 years ago, Tommie Smith and John Carlos made a statement atop the medals platform in Mexico City with a simple, but powerful outstretched gloved fist.

There was the Cold War boycott of the games in Moscow by the U.S. in 1980, and the Soviets' retaliation by skipping the Los Angeles games in 1984.

The Atlanta games were marred by a bomber who made a statement through violence against a crowd celebrating the games.

But the ultimate image of world politics and conflict crossing into Olympics territory can be summed up in one word -- Munich.

We all remember the words of legendary broadcaster Jim McKay as he said simply, "They're all gone."

Senseless tragedy in a place of celebration.

As the world pointed toward Beijing there have been protests and discussions of whether countries should or should not participate.

But now, the games are here, and it's time to consider the true meaning of what the ancient Greeks intended the Olympics to be -- a celebration of sport and nothing else. Athletes competing for the love of a game and a country.

It's idealistic to be sure, but we believe it's time to focus on the athletes and not where the games are being staged.