TRUTH . . . SETS FREE
(continued)

I was hitherto unaware of his interest in the Almighty, but the insult didn't matter. The truth was I could run long distances, I wasn't slower than his grandmother. Not true! Nothing could rob me of my achievement, I hadn't cheated this time. I can only say I felt liberated, I had discovered a truth until then locked up inside of me and my gift had been set free. I could run and had found my sport for a lifetime.

Over fifty years later I have learned that our worth does not depend on our abilities, on what we can do. We are all unique and valuable, acceptable to God without having to attain. It is participating that matters, not just winning.

I write this article on day one of the Sydney Olympic Games and I wonder how many athletes have such an attitude? Taking part, not just winning, is the sentiment encompassed in the Olympic ideal. Sadly winning has become nearly everything and for many the motto is 'Second is nowhere'. What a tragedy. And it is not true. Thankfully I have finally learned the joy of participation and am glad just to be a runner in the race of life. We are all winners.

'To your marks . . . . '

© Maurice Smith 2004

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