Stop, Look, Listen... and Grow!

I traveled this weekend to Lincoln, NE with a friend to watch the Special Olympics Opening Ceremonies.  I had never been to anything affiliated with the Special Olympics... and I really didn't know what to expect. I almost backed out of the trip, because I was overwhelmed at the time with work projects and deadlines... I am so thankful that I went... I was not prepared for what I saw.

2010 Special Olympics Opening Ceremonies

The Opening Ceremonies began with the parade of athletes.  The parade consisted of over 8,000 smiling athletes from 47 states... over 14,000 people were in the arena that day, participating or cheering from their seats.  The excitement and enthusiasm was contagious!  Getting caught up in the moment, I jumped into the line of athletes and gave 'hi-fives' as they proudly marched by. 
The rest of the program consisted of motivational speakers, celebrity artists and athletes, and inspirational video clips, but there was one moment that shined above them all...
A team of athletes carried an enormous Special Olypmics flag to the stage, and as they raised the flag on pulleys, Sandi Patty sang "We Raise This Flag... for all the world to see!"  The crowd went wild!  Over 14,000 spectators were on their feet... the thunderous applause was so loud it was deafening!  Wow!  It was incredible!  Words cannot describe the outflow of emotions I was feeling at that moment.  Those athletes were so proud to be in this arena... and I didn't even know them, but I was gleaming with pride too.
Have you ever found yourself so caught up in the busyness or complacency of your life, that you almost missed out on something incredible?  I almost did.  Where in your life do you need to take a step back and take note before the world passes you by?