News reports say that Mrs. Shriver had suffered a stroke and a broken hip a few years ago. Sadly, we know that often broken bones, like hips, in the elderly can cause a serious health decline (Fractures Raise Mortality Rates in Seniors).

Mrs. Shriver may have been a member of an American political dynasty, but she’ll likely be better remembered for her devotion to a cause that was started in her own backyard: the Special Olympics.

Originally a day camp for a few people has grown into an organization that helps millions of physically and mentally challenged children and adults (One Woman’s Vision). And if anyone was to ever doubt the importance of the Special Olympics, all they have to do is watch these athletes as they play and compete to the best of their ability. And speak to one of the athletes after the competition – you will learn more than you thought you could.

How do I know this? My (foster) brother has Down’s Syndrome. Now, he’s in his early 30s and has been competing in Special Olympics events for several years. He bowls, he swims and he loves every minute of it. And he’s darned good at them too.

Whether you’re a fan of the Kennedy family or not, no-one can ever take away what Mrs. Shriver has done for millions of people and their families and friends.

Rest in peace.

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Images: ZumaPress.com and PhotoXpress.com

Post from: Blisstree

Special Olympics’ Eunice Shriver, RIP

Excerpts from Maria Shriver’s Pledge taken from Oprah.com and published in her book Just Who Will You Be?: Big Question. Little Book. Answer Within.

1. I pledge to “show up” in my life as myself, not as an imitation of anyone else.

2. I pledge to avoid using the word “just” to describe myself. For example, I won’t say, “I’m just a mother,” “I’m just a student” or “I’m just an ordinary person.”

3. I pledge to give myself ten minutes of silence and stillness every day to get in touch with my heart and hear my own voice.

4. I pledge to use my voice to connect my dreams to my actions.

5. I pledge to use my voice to empower myself and others.

6. I pledge to serve my community at least once a year in a way that will benefit other people.

7. I pledge to ask myself, “Who am I? What do I believe in? What am I grateful for? What do I want my life to stand for?”

8. I pledge to sit down and write my own mission statement.

9. I pledge to live my own legacy.

10. And I pledge to pass it on.

I’ve believed, for a while now, that women would have a million times more access to our own power if we stopped limiting ourselves with the word “just” and focused on showing up as ourselves and living a legacy worth passing on.

This is a pledge I’m taking for myself.

You?

Post from: Blisstree

Maria Shriver’s Pledge