Living in the shadow of her brothers, and in the whirl of politics and testosterone, Eunice Shriver developed a tenacious advocacy for people with physical disabilities.  This was brought on due to her sister’s disabilities.  Once finding the opportunity to roll up her sleeves and dig in with a local Chicago event called Special Olympics, an idea hatched by Anne McGlone Burke (then a physical education teacher, now a sitting Supreme Court justice in Illinois), magic happened.  Now the events are recognized internationally and literally millions of people have not only been given hope and a sense of achievement, but also millions more have seen that just because someone has a disability, it doesn’t make them worthless.

How does a single event in Chicago turn into an international phenomena?  How does a phyical education teacher end up on the bench of the Illinois Supreme Court?  By applying BIG (Bold, Innovative and Generous) principles to their lives and constantly pushing the envelope with innovation and tireless dedication to a cause they are particularly passionate about.  Further, knowing full well that happy surprises await those who live out these BIG principles, they watch and wait.  These moments happen that propel you to unknown heights.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver could have easily lived the old world high society life.  Instead, one day back in 1968 she donned a $10 Sears swimsuit and jumped into a pool with children who were often ignored.  The rest is history.  Thank  you Eunice and Anne for being so BIG.  The world is changed because of you both.  John Kennedy has an eternal flame at his gravesite.  Your flame burns around the world and in the hearts of millions every day.   For BIG people like Ms. Shriver and Justice Burke, eternal purpose is achieved through chance meetings, courageous purposeful living and undying passion.    Justice Burke, thank you.  Ms. Shriver, rest in peace as yours was a life well lived.

Posted in BIG Blog, Inspiration