Are You Ready To Help When Needed?

On July 26, 1992, Derek Redmond started running in the 400m semi-final race in the Barcelona Olympics. He was in the best shape of his life and had been prepared to win the gold medal, but 150m in, he pulled his hamstring and collapsed. A few seconds later, he struggled to his feet and began to limp toward the finish line.

Suddenly, Derek's father, Jim, rushed from the stands, pushing past security, and putting his arm around his son to help him finish the race. 65,000 people present, along with thousands more watching on TV, began to cheer with every step. Just before they reached the finish line, Jim let go and backed away, allowing Derek to finish the race on his own.

Derek finished in last place, but he finished. He didn't win any medals, but his victory commanded the respect of everyone who saw the race unfold. Jim was ready to jump in and lend a hand when he was needed, encouraging his son with every step.

So many people around us are struggling through life, desperate for that helping hand of support and encouraging words. Are you ready to be "Jim" when the opportunity arises?

Many people feel that the only way to get ahead is at the expense of others. Someone else's dream has to die, or someone else has to fail, so they can take their place. But it doesn't have to be like that. There's plenty of room for everyone!

When you see someone struggling, do you jump in to help them? Some people we take all the way to the finish line, while others we carry through the tough times and let them finish on their own, like Jim did.

Maybe you're a teacher trying to help your students, but you just don't know if you're making a difference or not. Maybe you're a parent, desperately hoping your words and actions make a difference in the life of your child. Maybe you're a leader trying to help your organization reach its highest potential. Or maybe you're just watching a friend struggle through a hard road in life. Whatever the case, be ready to help when you're needed.

Every step you take with this person, holding them up when they feel their confidence is gone, is something invaluable. It means so much to every one of us to know we aren't running our race alone. Never underestimate the value of a kind word or positive action at the right moment.

If, on the other hand, you have someone like Jim in your life who has been there and continues to help you without looking for a reward, take the time to thank them. Life is easier when we have people in our corner ready to help when the need arises.