True Colours

It was the ancient Roman philosopher Seneca who suggested that;

The scene: The Seattle Special Olympics. The Event: The 100-yard dash. All 9 participants are either physically or mentally disabled. The starters gun goes off and the race starts. While not a fast race the runners all start with an eagerness and a desire to run the race to the finish and win. Except for one boy. He stumbled on the starters block, tumbled over a couple of times, and began to cry. The other eight heard the boy. They slowed down and looked back. They all stopped, turned around and went back. One girl with Down's Syndrome bent down, kissed him and said, "This will make it better." All nine linked arms and walked across the finish line together. Everyone in the stadium stood, and the cheering went on for several minutes.

People who were there still tell the story today. Why? Because I think deep down each of us recognises a universal truth. Life is not about winning. It's not about beating others. It's not about having the most.

I am convinced that a full life is one where a healthy concern for others is at the heart of our personal character. The life God calls us to lead is characterised by justice, mercy and humility. It does not seek first place. Rather, it helps others to win, even if you have to slow down and change course in the process.

This week we farewell members of our school community. To those of you who are leaving, don't seek to just have a long life; have a full life. Shine as a light to the world, and seek to be filthy rich; rich in compassion, rich in generosity and rich in love. As the prophet Micah calls us;

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