The Special Olympics Story

A few years ago at the Seattle Special Olympics, nine contestants all physically or mentally disabled, assembled at the start line for the 100-yard dash. At the gun, they all started out, not exactly in a dash, but with relish to run the race to the finish and win. All that is, except, one little boy who stumbled on the asphalt, tumbled over a few times, and began to cry. The other eight heard the boy cry. They slowed down and looked back. They all turned around and went back--every one of them.

 One girl with Down’s Syndrome bent down and kissed him and said, “This will make it better.” Then all nine linked arms and walked to the finish line together. Everyone in the stadium stood, and the cheering went on for several minutes. People who were there are still telling the story. Why? Because deep down inside of us, we all know one thing. What matters in this life is more than winning for ourselves. What matters in this life is helping others win even if it means slowing down and changing our course.

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Last Modified: March 22, 2003