There are few things that universally inspire, but this does

Now that we’re mostly done arguing about Olympic boxers’ genders and hormone levels, the Paralympics offer us a chance to appreciate those who are chasing dreams few of us can understand.

Admittedly, I didn’t make the time to watch much of the recent Olympic Games and mostly caught highlights on YouTube. And there were plenty of unbelievably inspirational moments and thrilling competitions to savor. I was proud for those who won medals, set records or simply accomplished their goals. 

Meanwhile, very few people are watching the Paralympic Games, but you should check out the highlights on YouTube, including the above video of swimmers competing in the backstroke finals. (Spoiler alert, “The Brazilian Torpedo” Gabrielzinho did quite well despite having no arms.)

Just watching the swimmers being helped into the water to start the race stops your heart for a moment. The determination of these athletes is equal to — if not superior — to those we consider “able-bodied.” We all have problems and setbacks in our lives, but 99.99 percent of us cannot comprehend the obstacles these athletes face, as well as others who are born with physical or other disadvantages.

Maybe I’m particularly sensitive to it because my grandfather lost his legs in World War II in 1943 while fighting against evil and for democracy against Nazis in Tunisia — while so many in America today fight for evil and against democracy. But I think anyone likely feels the same sense of awe and inspiration when watching these Paralympians even if they haven’t had family members in similar situations.

At a time when professional sports stars squabble with teams over whether to settle for a $250 million contract or keep holding out for a $275 million deal, these Paralympians are chasing dreams for the sake of the dream, climbing over mountains of obstacles instead of tripping over piles of cash.

We can all get behind these Paralympians, no matter which country they represent and no matter their particular advantages or disadvantages compared to other Paralympic athletes. We also should take note of how they support each other and honor their competition’s accomplishments.

This is something we can all get behind. Well, maybe not all of us. Years ago, when I was a copy editor at the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer, we ran a front-page Sunday feature about U.S. Paralympian swimmers training at nearby Warm Springs. The main photo was a swimmer who had lost both of her legs. It was an incredibly inspirational photo, and I wish I could remember which of our great photographers took the shot so I could give them credit.

Yet, one lady called us that Sunday morning. She was furious. “I shouldn’t have to look at that first thing in the morning!” she yelled. We never imagined that anyone could be offended by the image. No decent person could be.

If you’re that lady and reading this today, don’t call me if you’re offended by The Brazilian Torpedo or any other Paralympian. Call a psychiatrist instead because you need help.