This past weekend was our local annual LDS Youth Conference. Over 200 youth (ages 14-18) from this area gathered to volunteer for the Special Olympics.
Our team, four girls and I, were assigned to the Aquatics Center as place judges - which meant we (7 people total) were in charge of looking at the wall to see who touched first. (They do not rely solely on the touch pads because some of the athletes grab the lip of the pool). So, it was our job to say who was first, second, and third. Yes, not the best job to give a Type A personality who has a tendency to stress easily :). By the end of the day I had a nice blister on my left hand from clutching the clipboard so tightly. Some of the races were REALLY close.
Towards the end of the day, one swimmer pushed HARD to get first place. After he touched the wall, he looked down to the line to see if he was first. When he realized he was, he flung both arms in the air and shouted with excitement. In that moment, he was Micheal Phelps. Awesome.
It was wonderful to rub shoulders with these athletes and feel the excitement of the games, the thrill of competition and the triumph of finishing. Everyone cheered for everyone - first and last place equally, opponents high-fiving each other. It was a place where small gestures meant so much and gratitude abounded. It was a place of joy and a unique opportunity I will never forget.
3 comments:
What a great thing to be able to be part of!!!
What a great youth activity.
What a wonderful event to be a part of, and I'm sure you have many memorable moments! Can't wait to hear all about it!
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