Slowing Down To Win The Race

Afew years ago, at the Seattle Special Olympics, nine contestants, all physically or mentally disabled, assembled at the starting line for the 100-yard dash. At the sound of the gun- shot, they all started out, not exactly in a dash, but with a relish to run the race tothe finish and win. All, but for one little boy who stumbled on the asphalt, tumbled over a couple of times, and began to cry, made slow progress. The other eight heard the boy cry. They slowed down and looked back. Then all of them turned around and went back to the little lad. 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 together to the finish line. 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 we all know: More than winning for ourselves what matters in this life is helping others win, even if it means slowing down and changing our course.