Let the Games Begin!

Tuesday I attended the Olympics in Indianola, Iowa...the Special Olympics to be specific.
Ben was participating in three different events. The softball throw, which he placed 3rd in. The 50 meter dash, which he placed 2nd in, and the 4x100 relay race, his team got 2nd in that one also.

It was very exciting for both athletes and friends & family that showed up to watched. But as I watched, I realized something. Every athlete's goal wasn't to win, but to compete and have fun!
From the time a race began to the time each one crossed the finish line they had a huge smile on their face. They didn't care whether or not they got first, they were just happy to be there, it was their moment.

It was amazing to see them do these things that some said they couldn't do. And to see them do it with a smile and not worry about what other people thought. That was very humbling.

And as I watched, I was reminded of how precious every single life is. No matter what extra challenges there might be with taking care of them, they're a gift from God. And to see them compete, not for pride and glory, but to just have fun, that was just awesome!
And you can count on one thing, I'll be back for years to come!