My son and the Special Olympics

Hundreds of athletes !

As many of you know, my son was diagnosed a few years ago with autism. He's a special kid to me. He struggles with communicating, he struggles with comprehension...he does very well in athletics. He's is funny, humorous, and sometimes a little trying on my patience...that's OK though – all kids have that effect on parents.

Today I had the pleasure of seeing my son compete in the Special Olympics. I had never seen an event like this. This was different, this was fun. You see, I was very competitive in every sport I participated in. I had a goal, to win. I would train, I would focus, I would get in the zone...then my goal was to deliver – most times I did. And when I didn't, I felt bad. I felt as if I failed both myself and my team members. Today, watching my son – I was so proud.

When we got to the track, there were several hundred athletes, and several hundred helpers. The goal was to compete...and to have fun. I looked around, and tears came to my eyes. Fortunately for me I had my sun glasses on. I didn't want to be a spectacle. As I looked around I saw children hugging, cheering each other on, and a ton of smiling faces....they were actually having fun.

My son and his helper for the day.

I looked all over for my son...hundreds of people walking around and I had to find my son. He was going to compete in a few minutes and I didn't want to miss it. Then I saw him, walking with his helper about 75 meters away. I walked his way and waved, then he saw me. The joy I had as he ran over to give me a hug - `Daddy, daddy, you came to see me!` he shouted. He gave me a hug and then ran back to his helper, he had to get ready for the softball throw.

I positioned myself at the end of the throwing area. I needed to get a nice picture of him. Finally it was his turn.

My son throwing

He wound up and let the ball go – All I remember thinking was,”nice throw buddy” After about 10 minutes, it was time to announce the ribbons. My son did well - 1^st place. He ran over and gave me another hug. 

The thing was, I couldn't care if he got first, or finished last...he did his best. Yep, I'm proud of my son – and of all the other athletes that demonstrated sportsmanship in a way that I've never seen before. We could all learn from their example.