Together, we can!

TOGETHER, WE CAN!

 “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up.” –Eccl. 4:9-10

Alaini and I with
 the beautiful Sheena!

Ever wonder what life would be like if you were completely alone? No one there to hold your hand when it’s cold, the absence of anyone to hold your heart when it’s breaking? It is my greatest desire that no one would ever have to experience being alone. God created us to serve and love one another, to help each other up when we fall down, cheer each other on in our struggles and celebrate with each other in our triumphs. No one should ever have to stand alone in this race we call life.

I was a little surprised
on my way to Whitefish to find
 this giant hereford
 in the middle of what I would not
 think is hereford country! What a cool dude.

This last weekend in Whitefish, MT I had the privilege of attending the 2013 State Winter Games for the Montana Special Olympics.  My heart came back filled to overflowing. I wish every day that I could receive so many hugs filled with such love. There was a parade down the main street of Whitefish. Before the parade, I spent some time getting to know many of the athletes and signing autographs for them. Alaini and I got to ride in some beautiful brand new vehicles for the parade and then we had a joyful dance party during the opening ceremonies. Spirits were running high. I am so proud of each and every one of the athletes and I can't wait to see my new friends again at the Summer games in Billings! 

Pretty in pink!
 Lynnette and I
on the slopes!

After the opening ceremonies, Alaini, her dad, Mike, and I all went out to a lovely dinner with my gracious host family, Jon and Lynnette. Jon and Lynnette made me feel so welcome and it was a treat to stay in their beautiful Whitefish home! Thank you Jon and Lynnette for making my journey one of treasured memories and new relationships! I will admit I could have stayed in Whitefish for a week browsing through the shops and skiing in that great powder they had…I did, however, get to sneak off to Glacier for a short hike before heading home. Lake MacDonald looked like the land of Narnia!

Bob Norbie, President of Special Olympics Montana, shared in a letter to the Fans of Special Olympics Montana that “through their courageous efforts [athletes] will challenge established opinions, assumptions, and stereotypes…break personal records, [and] through their abilities and tenacious efforts they will also break down walls of exclusion…” During these Winter Games, personal records were broken, hearts were soaring, and walls came crashing down. I’m thankful to have been a part of these dreams being realized. We all need a cheering section at the finish line of the many races we run every day. Who do you need to cheer on in your life right now? Who do you need to thank for cheering you on?

Let’s get busy realizing our dreams and helping others to do the same!