A Special Day

Student: Miss F, I didn't know you played soccer growing up!
Me: You never asked...
Student: Yeah, I know.

What a wonderful day we had in 7th grade - we took a break from our normal school routine and, instead, had the opportunity to help out with Special Olympics Chicago, an organization helping children and adults with cognitive disabilities.

Today, the sport was soccer, and the students were assigned to skills stations, where they explained the skill, timed the athletes, and kept score. By their standards, the skills seemed simple, and that only reinforced the idea that we often take our abilities for granted. It was pure joy to see the athletes running around, dribbling and shooting the ball, and receiving their awards. They had such a great time!

And our students were smiling a lot too - they really stepped up, showing leadership and responsibility at their respective stations. And, when the event itself was over, they had some time to let loose in a pick up soccer game. (We got to play around a bit before the event too - I was with the group on Field 3, and it just felt good to juggle and kick around the soccer ball. It's been forever!...and it doesn't take much to impress those kiddos...)

I am so grateful for the volunteer opportunity today, and I look forward to helping out at more events in the future. My heart is so happy.