They say it happened.. In the Special Olympics.. It was time for the finale of the day.. The Hundred Yard Dash. There were nine contestants, all of them were physically or mentally disabled, that lined up at the starting line. The gun signaled the start of the race and they all started toward the ribbon hanging across the track one hundred yards away. It was the fastest race but all of the nine gave their best to cross the finish line first.

Then it happened. One young boy stumbled, he fell face first on the track surface, rolled over and started to cry. The other eight heard the boy crying and turned their heads back to see him sprawling on the track. They slowed down and stopped. One started back and the rest followed.

One little girl with Down's Syndrome bent down, put her arms around him, and kissed him, telling him, "It's okay." Then all nine linked arms and walked together to the finish line.

They say everyone in the stadium stood, and the cheering went on for 10 minutes.

Competition And Compassion..

The Olympics are wonderful thing to watch. Some of the greatest athletes in the world striving to do their best and that is an exciting thing. Yet, I think I would have preferred to see the 100 yard dash ran at those Special Olympics. I would like to have cheered those eight compassionate runners and shared in the joy of that special moment where love outdistanced the desire to be first.

You see.. I know that there are more important things than winning. Love, compassion, friendship last a lot longer than a ribbon, a medal or a trophy. When all the trophies, awards and medals are cast aside.. the only thing that will count is the love we've shown not races we have won.

I can almost hear the question.. are you sure? Well, in a few years you won't remember who won the Olympic gold medal in the 100 Meters.. but you will never forget those nine runners in that Special Olympics race.

We can put those same values to work in our lives. Tomorrow.. You don't have to win that argument. You don’t have to outshine your fellow employee. You don’t have to correct that person who mispronounces some word. Instead, you can show some love and compassion and make a better day for everyone.

So go out and have a great day.. and show someone some love and compassion. Win at the race that really counts.. the human race.