Today was The Down Syndrome Association of Orange County’s BUDDY WALK 2017. And I absolutely love this day. Nine years ago I had no idea that in just a few months my life would be filled with new people who would change me for the better. People who would unknowingly become some of my greatest heroes. People who I would cry with and celebrate with. People who would so generously trust me to share in their lives. And people who would lovingly share in mine. Yet, here I am. This event is so much more to me than just a fun fundraiser. It’s a collectivity of people I have come to know and respect. Many of whom I had the privilege of meeting just days into their introduction to Down Syndrome. They have blessed me so much. I can’t hold the tears back at this event. I love these families. I love being one of them. And I love this organization and its’ mission. There is a moment at each Buddy Walk that I take for myself. I look out across the stadium and see the crowd that has gathered. It is beautiful. At this event I’m not just the facilitator of our Circle or Friends group, I am part of an incredible community of human beings who understand the gift we have all been given. I am honored and humbled that God chose me for this. And I will always be grateful to stand in the presence of these warrior souls who are all just a little more tender, fight just a little bit harder and love a whole lot deeper than anyone I’ve ever met before.
Well, I hope you all have a day where you are part of the lucky few!!!
living and running in lala land 