Special

Today was ever so special. I spent the afternoon at the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics USA games and it was simply incredible.

I’ve always wondered about the word “special”. It harkens memories of the old Saturday Night Live skit where Dana Carvey dressed up like the Church Lady and said with a sneer…”well, isn’t that special?!” Because of this, the phrase “special needs” always felt a little suspect to me, even before I had one of these very special children of my own.

Since I had my own “special” child 10 years ago, I’ve thought a lot more about the term. Of course, my other two typically developing kids are equally special. And truthfully, most people (and families) with special needs would really rather have just average, everyday needs – an easier road in life. Special, in this sense, means hard work. Often health challenges. Heartless interactions. And a fortitude of strength required. It also can mean true love. An uncomplicated joy. And endless grit and determination. I’ve seen it all and most days, I focus on the joy.

I actually was a little apprehensive about going to the opening ceremonies. Sometimes moments like these fill me with sadness as I deeply empathize with the stories behind the athletes and their families. My heart aches for their hardship and knowing how hard each of these souls is working.

But today was INCREDIBLE. To see the happiness, pride and joy of the athletes was so inspiring. You wanted to cheer your heart out so they could feel your support. The athletes were waving to the crowd, dancing in the aisles, and hugging their teammates. Each of them accomplished so much to get to this day and for many, it will be a life highlight.

The athlete’s oath is so powerfully perfect, “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” These athletes are the epitome of brave – in their everyday life – and in their Olympic pursuits. I aspire for this form of bravery.

And I knew this was my kind of party when one of the opening videos featured an athlete sharing, “I don’t want your pity. I need your respect.” For those not accustomed to spending time with this community, it’s so profound. Do not pity these athletes. They are the ultimate heroes.

The speakers hit just the right tone. I was so proud of my company, Microsoft. As the predominant sponsor of the event, I’ve never been more honored to work for Microsoft. And I was proud of our city for showing up so enthusiastically and cheering loudly.

My favorite speaker was Special Olympics chairman, Timothy Shriver, son of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who founded the Special Olympics. Talk about a woman with a vision. What started as a summer camp now inspires millions around the world. He spoke to the athletes in real terms, applauded their accomplishments, and reinforced how very much they belong.

“Everyone has a right to play. To compete. To dream. The right to study in any school. The right to a job. You have earned it.”

He also encouraged them to “Show the world what it looks like to lead from the heart. Because the world is looking. The world is looking for leaders who value compassion, who value dignity and respect, who value unity, and you, my fellow athletes and friends of Special Olympics, you are the ones the world is looking for. You are the leaders the world needs at this critical moment. So show America what it means to shower respect on your fellow human beings. Show the world what it means to choose to include. Show others, where they see tension and fear, show them togetherness.”

Incredible. We can all learn a lot from this special day. From these special people. And not because of their special needs, but because of their special gifts.