Special Olympics

A few 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 gun, they all started out, not exactly in a dash,
but with arelish to run the race to the finish and win.
All, that is, except one little boy who stumbled on the
asphalt, tumbled over a couple of times,and began to cry.
The other eight heard the boy cry. They slowed down and
looked back. Then they all turned around and went back.
Every one of them.

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 know this one thing: What
matters in this life is more than winning for ourselves.
What matters in this life is helping others win, even if
it means slowing down and changing our course.

Author Unknown



-God Grant Me-

God Grant me the Strength I need to face the things life has dealt.

Grant me the Patience to make it through another day.

Let me have the Courage to stand up for my child and I.

Help me to accept the things I cannot change,

Wisdom to understand and provide the very best care for my child with Special Needs.

Most of all God Grant me the Serenity I need to be the best Mother and Friend to my Child.

-Author Unknown


The Ten Commandments For Parents of Handicapped Children

1. Take one day at a time, and take that day positively. You don't have control over the future, but you do have control over today.

2. Never underestimate your child's potential. Allow him, encourage him, expect him to develop to the best of his abilities.

3. Find and allow positive mentors: parents and professionals who can share with you their experience, advice, and support.

4. Provide and be involved with the most appropriate educational and learning environments for your child from infancy on.

5. Keep in mind the feelings and needs of your spouse and your other children. Remind them that this child does not get more of your love just because he gets more of your time.

6. Answer only to your conscience: then you'll be able to answer to your child. You need not justify your actions to your friends or the public.

7. Be honest with your feelings. You can't be a super-parent 24 hours a day. Allow yourself jealousy, anger, pity, frustration, and depression in small amounts whenever necessary.

8. Be kind to yourself. Don't focus continually on what needs to be done. Remember to look at what you have accomplished.

9. Stop and smell the roses. Take advantage of the fact that you have gained a special appreciation for the little miracles in life that others take for granted.

10. Keep and use a sense of humor. Cracking up with laughter can keep you from cracking up from stress.

Author Unknown