Charity-Pass it on

One of my favorite stories of all time is a beautiful example of Christlike charity that happened in the Seattle Special Olympics may years ago.

“This story is told of nine contestants, all physically or mentally disabled, assembled at the starting line for the hundred-yard dash.

“At the gun, they all started out, not exactly in a dash, but with a relish for running the race to the finish and winning. All, that is, except one little boy, who stumbled on the asphalt, tumbled over a couple of times, 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 the cheering went on for several minutes. People who were there are still telling the story.

“Why? Because deep down we know that what matters in this 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…We achieve happiness when we seek the happiness and well-being of others.”

During this difficult time of the Covid-19 outbreak where fevers sometimes run high and fears even higher. I believe perhaps the best thing to remember is that we are all children of the same God and He would have us care for and love one another.

I believe we can do much good even while quarantined to our homes. We can pray for others, video call a lonely parent, drop off a plate of cookies to the door of a friend, or contribute inspirational thoughts through social media.

Perhaps remembering others during this difficult time will take thoughts away from our own fears and struggles and bring us joy by lifting and encouraging others. ‘Charity never faileth’ and perhaps the state of being we become through practicing charity can bring peace… the kind of peace no stock pile of toilet paper can ever duplicate.

Kirk Douglas, My Stroke of Luck (New York: HarperCollins, 200), 162-163.