GENERATIONAL CHANGE

I don't know what it all means or if it is important politically or socially but it sure is interesting. As someone who grew up as a leftist in the middle of the Cold War the images are almost unbelievable. I would have loved to have that CCCP jacket Johnny always wears but the idea of a member of the U.S. Ice Skating Team brazenly wearing the jacket that was worn by the Soviet athletes of the past kind of takes you back. Yes, Johnny Weir wears this jacket a lot and likes to have his picture taken wearing it. He is known as saying he loves everything Russian. He has a language degree and speaks fluent Russian. He speaks Russian to his coaches and he writes in Russian on his skates for good luck. He has lived and trained in Russia. Sure Johnny is a rebel but it is not rebellion for rebellion's sake. It is part of his ethic of authenticity. (He has had problems with PETA for his affinity for Russian fur hats).

Part of that authenticity is how he was brought up. His mother taught him to always be himself regardless of what anyone says. Of course his outspoken affinity for Russia is not his only non conformity. When I was in college we always knew that when the Ice Capades were in town the Gay Bar (there was only one) would be packed. The number of Gay men who are Ice Skaters is no secret. But no one was ever as flamboyant as Johnny Weir. No one would admit to designing and making his own costume. At the same time he is a classically trained skater. He nails his jumps. Last week he successfully made the same jumps as the Gold Medal winner. He came in 6th behind skaters who landed on their butts. But Johnny has grace. He quieted the crowd who booed in shock at the low scores he received. Johnny was not shocked. He does not publicly attack the judges. He crosses himself, talks to the camera in Russian and performs his best.

He will compete at the World Championships next month and then will probably retire from skating. I'll miss him.