Lethbridge College alumni Rob Bernshaw will have a tough time letting go of the passion, energy and inspiration he felt as one of Lethbridge’s Olympic torchbearers.
“I am still on a high,” says Bershaw, who went around the college the Monday after showing staff and students the coveted torch he purchased for $350.”
Not only was it a once-in-life time opportunity for Bernshaw’s memory banks, he also feels fortunate to be able to share his experience with others.
“I was able to help other students that felt down, so with this experience I am now able to give that energy to other people to help people and bring them happiness.
“The experience is just uplifting”
He says the community spirit that came together last Sunday is a model for the entire world.
“This torch resembles peace,” Bernshaw says, emotion evident on his face. “If all of the nations could get together instead of fighting and use this symbol of peace and friendship… I still believe there is still spirit in this torch.”
Bernshaw says he was filled with mixed emotions and thoughts as he ran with the torch.
“It passed very quickly; it was so fast and emotional, I am still feeling it. It’s very emotional because it’s a benefit to people and to pass the flame on.”
Bernshaw says he didn’t know what to think or say the day he got the call to be an Olympic torchbearer.
“I was very surprised when that phones call came; I was speechless.
“It was 12:27 Oct. 15, 2009. I thought it was a telemarketer, so I was going to walk away and not answer it, all of a sudden some words came into my head to just answer it.”
Bernshaw entered daily trivia draws through i-Coke from the end of January to the first of June in the hopes of becoming a torchbearer. After making it through the first round of selections, Bernshaw then had to write a two hundred-word essay before being chosen.
“I am very happy to have participated, to help pass peace on,” says Bernshaw, who adds he plans to keep talking about the experience and passing on the joy and happiness he felt on his journey.
“ Whatever opportunity is good for you take it, don’t pass it by. That’s how I live my life, just do it. Whatever happens, happens and just move on.
“Whatever I can do to pass my energy on to others I will do that.”