Wednesday, April 25, 2007

Special Olympics: In Memory of Jessica

Today I accompanied the students from our school district to their Special Olympics competition. This is a great day for everyone involved. All the competitors are allowed to participate in three events of their choosing: They are awarded medals on the victory stand after each event. This year however is bitter/sweet for me. Last June one of my third grade students that participated in the Special Olympics died unexpectedly. Jessica was her name. She was confined to a wheelchair, but she always had something to tell you or ask you. She had every reason to be unhappy with life, but she chose not to. The family asked me to be one of the pallbearers at her funeral. During the service, what I had suspected was confirmed by her pastor. Prior to her death, Jessica had become a follower of Jesus and had made Him Lord of her life. How many time do we complain about the most trivial things in life, not appreciating the blessings God has given to each one of us. I have missed seeing her in class this school year: The Special Olympics was always a highlight for her. I am dedicating this entry in my blog to her memory...Love ya Jessica; I know I will see you again.

1 comment:

Grace said...

What a beautiful tribute, Lanny. Just think, when you see Jessica again in heaven, she will RUN to you and give you a big hug! What a great reunion that will be!

The Special Olympics is such an amazing event. I remember when I was younger I got to help young people train in swimming events for the Special Olympics. Their enthusiasm for life, in spite of their difficulties, is something I really admire.