Those who were alive for it say the Olympic Stadium was the most magnificent sight in the world.
The lights, the athletes in their colors.
The music and sounds and cheers and the cannons roaring.
And the flags, so many flags from around the world.
The flag of the regime flew highest of all.
Over time, the athletes became soldiers. Then martyrs.
The stadium, a parade ground.
Then an execution ground.
Where I kneel now, our champion sprinter stood to receive his medal.
I hear the soldier cock his gun and feel the barrel against the back of my head.