I said “run like the wind and don’t look back”, and so she did.  It was the biggest race of the year and Isabel had the final leg of the 4^th grade girl’s 400 meter relay.  As she ran, I could see full determination on her face.  Nothing would stop her from crossing that finish line.  Nothing…. Her team counted on her to take it home, and as the baton was passed gently into her hand, the sweat dripped from her brow and her legs burned with the pulsation of nerves mixed with adrenaline. It was up to Isabel to carry it to the finish line.  

With great satisfaction, Isabel crossed the finish line.  Not first, not second, but sixth.  It was nothing short of victory because in this race, there were no losers.  As the ribbons were distributed, the smiles said it all and everyone was happy. 

It was a great race.

Can I just say, I wish all of life was like this race?  I wish we could all be as happy just to cross the finish line.  Who cares who won? The greatest lessons in life I learn from my kids.  Humility, determination, team work and love for one another. 

Stephen, sorry you had to travel today and miss this.