Special Olympics athlete oath—

“Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

Recently I had the pleasure of attending the Special Olympics Bowling League. It was joyful. Having spent most of my career in the camp profession I was not able to get involved in Special Olympics. I do remember how important it was to the adult recreation campers at the camp I worked at. All who were involved with Special Olympics would leave their camp session early to attend an event that overlapped their camp session. I must admit there had always been a small part of me that wished Special Olympics had a different name or that it was more inclusive. I just did not really know and that part of me was wrong.

The Special Olympic Bowling League was an inclusive recreation event. What I witnessed was people of all abilities participating alongside one another and engaging with one another. I saw conversations, laughter, pats on the back, hugs, reminiscing and pure JOY. I cheered those who missed a spare and celebrated those who got strikes. I watched teammates lift each other up and gently remind one another when it was their turn.

Inclusive recreation, including camping, is the perfect way to show the world that people of all abilities can and do have meaningful experiences together. I am thankful for the Special Olympics organization and all that it does to create opportunities for people with and without disabilities.

I just learned that March and October are important months for Special Olympics. March stands out as fundraising month, and October is the National Disability Employment Awareness Month which brings awareness to the work of the Special Olympic athletes. This organization is and has been doing the intentional work of inclusion. Kudos to all the athletes, coaches, staff, volunteers, and fans.

Interested in knowing more about Special Olympics? Go here:

https://www.specialolympics.org/

Peace,

Angi