Special Olympics

Today marks the end of the Special Olympics, and while many Americans are probably too busy with other sporting events this is one that holds a special place in my heart.  My wife is a special education teacher who is passionate about getting those with disabilities involved.  The Special Olympics is something that gives everyone a chance to compete.  I was honored to volunteer for greeting several countries in a local host city and chatting with the Ukraine team!  We also had the opportunity to go and watch the Half Marathon where we witnessed tremendous dedication.  I mean truly these athletes were amazing.  There was one athlete from Puerto Rico who had cerebral palsy and although he could only fictionally use one of his arms, and one leg was clearly a hindrance he finished the race in under two and a half hours.  Why does all of this matter?  Because even though the challenges they face in life, they never gave up.  I wish more people would take this attitude and bring it to their own life.  Everyone in life has struggles, but not everyone chooses to take life by the horns and enjoy it.  If we as a society learn anything from this week of games it is to go forward and be the best you can be, each and every day.  We also learned that EVERYONE deserves a chance to be great, and that all people enjoy being supported by others.

I want to give an opportunity for my wife to share her experience with Special Olympics. Hello, I am Angela, The Old Guard's wife. In addition to the events mentioned above, I also attended the Special Olympics Inaugural Dance Challenge on Friday with my mom. This included athletes dancing in the following categories: Solo, Duo, Ballroom, and Crews. The stage was electrified with emotion, passion, and most of all heart! It was easy to tell that each performer truly loves dance and music. I became teary-eyed when the soloists performed because it was all so raw and real, coming straight from their heart. I admire each of these dancers and this experience has encouraged me to be as pure and confident in my own dancing! I am truly happy that an organization finally recognizes dance as a sport because it takes as much hard work and dedication as basketball or soccer, etc. Not many schools even consider performing arts on the same level as sports. In conclusion, I am glad to see the world is starting to change and include all people into the Olympics and to have been part of the Inaugural Dance Challenge! I have to go now because The Old Guard is hoovering over me impatiently. Bye!