This massive statue of Jesus greets every visitor to this incredible city!
Wednesday was another off day, and since things in the women's tournament are getting serious, I though it would be a good day to make the trek up and visit the Redeemer. This 125 foot high statue of Jesus can be seen from everywhere in Rio. He symbolically looks over this massive city, rich and poor, black or white. I have to imagine that visitors to "Cristo Redentor" have spiked during these games.
The ride up is fun, as the van drivers seem to know their part in the journey is part of the show. Winding roads and edgy driving make it feel like a roller coaster at times.
We were dropped off at a gift shop about halve way up. It is brilliant marketing. We had to walk through it and then get on another van to the top. Once at the top Rio unfolds before your eyes. There is so much to see.
I have to mention that I'm certain that a photograph cannot capture the beauty of this view. There just is nothing like seeing it with your own eyes.
Then you remember the giant statue of the savior. Stretching his arms out as if he was offering a hug to all of Brazil. Yesterday would have been a good day for that hug.
So much disappointment at these games for the athletes in green and gold.
I'll tell you though, the real feeling I had at the base of that statue, it had little to do with religion. This unlikely journey. Why I am here. What brought me to stand at the feet of Jesus, and the overwhelming thought. I am here. Still standing. Still living. Still enjoying. All these wonderful athletes, their families, and me. I may never be in this place again, but for today, it was glorious.
I am not one to have made a trip like this, yet here I am.
In the Broadway show that has come to mean so much to me Alexander Hamilton says "There's a million things I haven't done, but just you wait, just you wait..."