Inspire & Be Inspired

As with many new things, I was hesitant to volunteer for the Special Olympics as a photographer. I had no idea what to expect or how I'd do.

Now that it's done, I wanna go back in time and start all over again. It was, without question, one of the most fulfilling things I have ever been a part of. I was inspired.

The athletes are those that, at times, we look at and feel pity for, because they are "different". This week, I learned that we are the ones to be pitied.

Each day I made the trip from the games entrance to the games office, about a 25 feet trek. If I didn't receive at least one hug along the way each trip, I was surprised. Everyone had a story and a smile to share. The people were some of the kindest, most gentle I've had the pleasure of meeting. I'm 22, I guess one would say I'm over the awkward stage or I should be, but I often don't think so. I wonder what others think of me and question what I'm wearing or how I'm acting. With these guys, I learned, it doesn't really matter. The only thing that mattered to them was that I listened and smiled back. They embrace everything about the strangers they meet and love the little things in life that we so often ignore or take for granted. There are million things we could learn from them, but one of the simplest is to smile at one another. A smile and hearty hello can make my day, I wonder why I don't choose to share it with others more often.

A highlight of this amazing week was Austin Featherstone. I grew up with Austin and this week I got to see him run and win the gold in the 800m. Austin received at least four medals this week. He was on cloud nine for all five days of the games. As I watched him fly along the track, I realized how blessed I am to know such a guy. Someone who says nothing bad about others, loves and embraces each person, competes with all he has, dances without worrying about rhythm and shows his appreciation for even the smallest of gifts.

I learned so much about living this week from those we think ought to be jealous of us. I am telling you, we are so wrong.

I didn' take these photos. But it's my blog and this event was too great not to be shared.

Photo Credit: Jason Selinger

I got to meet a few famous people along the way. Don Cherry. (If you're from Canada, he's probably more famous than our Prime Minister) Corey Perry, Brandon Purst & Danny Syvret. Members of the Canadian Olympic Hockey team. And I was placed with the best photography team. Truly a pleasure to work with you guys.

Photo Credit: Connor Gray

600 police offers ran 10 k to deliver the torch.

Allison, Connor and I :)