My editorial on Shriver printed today

[w8liftinglady]

http://www.thedailylight.com/articles/2011/01/22/opinion/doc4d3bbd4f6e0b8983470472.txt

Recently, we lost a great American. In my lifetime, I was fortunate to meet him several times. I’d like to share a little piece of Sargent Shriver with you.

In 1964, Sargent Shriver was named the Director of the War on Poverty. During the Shriver years more Americans got out of poverty than during any similar time in our history. At a rally in New Haven, Conn., I was met by a kind man while holding my mother’s hand. “Never lose hope in the good people around you.” I will never forget that.

As director of The Peace Corps, Mr. Shriver was so important to the concept of peace around the world. As a Purple Heart veteran, he saw firsthand the true benefit of peace. He greeted my aunt as she was leaving for an assignment in Pakistan with the Peace Corps. In the midst of all this, he took the time to kneel and tell a seven year-old ...”Never lose faith in the power of love of your neighbor.” I will never forget that.

Seventeen years later, I volunteered at a Special Olympics event in San Angelo, Texas. Sargent Shriver, then President of the Special Olympics, came to our registration table and thanked us all for our support of ALL Americans. “You have made success a reality for these kids.” I will never forget that.

Sargent Shriver showed through his actions what could be accomplished by a committed group of Americans.

Americans need a hero.

Sargent Shriver was mine.