Heart Gifts

It's not things that can be bought
that are life's richest treasure,
It's just the little heart gifts
that money can not measure.

A cheery smile, a friendly word,
a sympathetic nod
Are priceless little treasures
from the storehouse of our God.

They are the things that can't be bought
with silver or gold,
For thoughtfulness and kindness
and love are never sold.

They are the priceless things in life
for which no one can pay,
And the giver finds rich recompense
in giving them away.

—Helen Steiner Rice

Seattle Special Olympics

A few years ago at the seattle special olympics, nine contestants, all physically or mentally disabled, assembled at the starting line for the 100 yard dash.

At the gun, they all started out, not exactly in a dash, but with a relish to run the race, to the finish, and win. All, that is, except one little boy who stumbled on the asphalt, tumbled over, and began to cry. The other eight heard the boy cry. They slowed down and looked back. Then they all turned around and went back. Every one of them. One girl with down's syndrome bent down and kissed him and said," this will make it better."

Then all nine linked arms, and walked together to the finish line. Everyone in the stadium stood, and cheered; the cheering went on for several minutes.

People who were there are still telling the story. Why? Because deep down we know this one thing: What matters in life is more than winning for ourselves. What matters in this life is helping others win, even if it means slowing down, and changing our course.

—Author Unknown