There are certain moments in life when even the most cynical of us are put in our place and perhaps even schooled in rethinking our positions. For years I have touted through my editorials stories that inspire the soul and to be honest, I am sure there are many more that go unheralded and un-noticed as we go about our daily routines oblivious often of moments like that which I again witnessed this past week.
Out in a gym Tuesday night covering a story for the newspaper, I received the usual call from my son checking in when he got home from a basketball practice and after assuring me all was well, he asked if he could join his teammates on a road trip to watch a basketball game in Bolingbrook. This wasn't just any game, it was game that included as a player the Romeoville Spartans boys varsity basketball manager Maurice a special needs student who has sat on the bench of the Spartans for the past three seasons.
Announcements were made all week in school leading up to Maurice's big game Tuesday night and the players that have always had his support came together to make sure he had theirs. Approximately fifty students showed up to cheer Maurice on in his game and it was reported he scored three points in the contest and was smiling ear to ear with so many of his friends and fellow students in the audience applauding his efforts on the court.
There is far too much emphasis in sport that is put on the scoreboard or conference standings. We highlight the big plays, the great individual and team efforts or sometimes the epic failures of a missed opportunity but when moments like this come to light, all of that seems so trivial.
The conduct and depth of character displayed by these students and athletes supporting Maurice in my mind is of far more value than any victory on they may achieve on the court. I am certain that while most those involved won't recall the score of the last game, they will likely never forget that moment with Maurice and in the end, those are the memories that last. A tip of the hat to all of you who made his moment a memorable one, you have learned the most important lesson I believe can be taught and in doing so perhaps you taught a lesson to others in the process.
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