iFor every kid who has ever played sports, for every parent who has ever had a kid involved in sports this story is one of courage, inspiration and pride. Ben's inspirational story should be read and seen by all who play the game, who run the race....
Ben Comen holds the record as the slowest cross country runner in the United States of America. On a typical 3.1 mile race, he takes 40-42 minutes to complete the race. But there is a catch in this inspirational story. Ben Comen is not a normal runner.
Ben Comen is an 18 year old teenager who was born with cerebral palsy. Since he was young, he has limited control of his arms and stiffness in his legs that made running a strenuous task. When he sleeps, he has to wear a set of leg brace to keep his leg functioning properly. He attends regular physical therapy to ensure that he can lead as normal a life as possible. What is most amazing about this inspirational story is that Ben just wanted to run for his schools cross country team.
In all the races of this inspirational story of Ben Comen, he would line up with every other race participant at the start line. As soon as the starter's gun sounded, Ben would be quickly left behind to run on his own while the other runners powered ahead of him. Within the first few minutes, Ben would be running on his own over undulating terrain, slippery ground, around bends and turns of nature. Mostly, Ben is racing on his own trying to beat his personal best. That would be in the range of 40-42 minutes for a 3.1 miler.
The finishes of Ben in his races were always a sight to behold. As Ben approached the finish line at dusk, his accompanying runners, including his siblings would cheer him on and help him up when he faltered. It reminded us of scenes of war movies we saw, when the King or great leader would lead the cavalry charge ahead of his horsemen. In these inspirational stories, the King was the inspirational leaders ahead of his troops. Similarly, as Ben came in towards the finish line, he was the inspirational leader to the others running behind him.
Ben Comen's inspirational story is a humbling one to us all. If someone with cerebral palsy could have a dream and fulfill it, what more is called of those of us who are normal. Ben Comen has been running all his life. Not from something but towards something.
With all that seems to be wrong with sports in today's society....here we find something that is right. A coach who let this kid be part of the "team". Kids that made Ben feel like part of the "team". A mom and dad who allowed their child to be normal even in the face of adversity. A community who embraced someone who was different. A child who only wanted to finish the race. People who did the right thing....and made a difference in a young mans life.
Ben's story is very inspirational, it is hard not to tear up as you watch the video. He demonstrates such determination and yet just as inspirational is the love his friends show for this young man. Grab a tissue and enjoy this powerful video about courage, determination and love.
I wish every child in America could see this video. This is what being a hero is all about.
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