by Mike Andruff - VancouverPropertyFinder.com
Back in January I posted a blog introducing the forthcoming Winter Olympics. In the video I highlighted a well know monument in Vancouver, The Terry Fox Memorial. I pointed out that it was fitting that Terry, a real Canadian hero, and his memorial was outside the building that would recognize many countries' heros for winning medals at the Celebration Ceremonies. I had no idea that several weeks later at the Paralympics, Terry would be featured as THE hero of the world's paralympians and we would see his parents bring the flame into the stadium.
As I sat in the 60,000 seat audience of BC Place at the Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony last night in Vancouver, I thought of my departed, disabled father (he lost use of his right arm due to a brain injury - he saved me from being trampled by a racehorse - I was three years old at the time). His indomitable spirit was brought to mind. He could do anything he set his mind to, just like the athletes we were introduced to that evening. We can do anything we set our minds to.
Vancouver had set its collective mind to delivering Olympic Games. But, we did so much more than that. We've built beautiful transportation systems, wonderful stadiums and plazas for people to enjoy in great numbers, and most important of all, we've created a new spirit of being Canadians. One body, one spirit, one mind. One inspires Many.
Watch these Paralympic Games. They will teach us our ability as humans to adapt and excel in the face of adversity, they will teach us the grace of those who society treats with absence of thought, and most importantly, they will teach us of the triumph of mind and heart over physical limitations.
If you thought you needed some inspiration, just watch these athletes.
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