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that we had dealt with the subject adequately. All of us face to face with this
theme — left great gaps, both teachers and students alike. This is why we
should not congratulate ourselves on our work too much. We must admit that
our abilities are limited, when dealing with such a complicated and important
subject. What we do have, is a sense of satisfaction in the knowledge that we
have begun to study it and that this will continue to be the work of a life time.
Only a proper assessment of the complexity of the subject enables us to
better appreciate the importance of Olympism which is the basis and the
spiritual prerequisite for the Olympic Games and the beautiful message
which they bring to whoever adopts its principles. This I think is the precious
benefit of our modest effort. That the benefit was great, is obvious from the
good reports of the working groups. I must say that through those reports,
you have substantial support to the more general task of the Academy, to its
new perspectives for the future and is the improvement of the work done
here. Thank you for this and I should like to thank the six professors who
stayed here with you throughout the entire session who were responsible for
the subjects chosen for discussion and who acted as consultants to the groups.
You are not only leaving the Academy however to be the heralds of the
Olympic Idea, but you are also leaving the sacred Altis near which you have
lived for 15 days so that you might draw inspiration from it, and use it as an
example. Thus you leave as citizens of Olympia, spiritually enrolled in the list
of students of the previous 18 sessions. The diploma of the Academy, which
you will receive shortly symbolically, will be your new registration in the long
and beautiful list of people of all nations and races who have stayed here for
the same purpose. I am sure that your thoughts will return to this place as to
your second spiritual home.
I will not, on behalf of the Ephoria of the Academy, bid you a final good
bye, instead I will wish you farewell with the ancient greeting in Greece
«khairete» — that is to say may you be happy, full of good humour, love and
feelings of friendship towards all those you meet during the course of your
lives, in whatever work you undertake. This wish goes with you and is at the
same time the essence of the spirit of Olympia and the Academy of which you
are now members for all time.
And so «Khairete», «khairete».
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