Special Olympics

Thanks to Colman McCarthy for the article on Eunice Shriver and the Special Olympics (NCR, Oct. 12). It is one of the few large organizations that I hold in utmost respect and regard. To read of the tenacity of Mrs. Shriver and the countless others involved is a humbling reminder of what more I can and should do for my fellow brothers and sisters, especially those who face such difficult circumstances. How can one look at the picture that accompanied the article and not be moved by the appreciation and joy shown in the athletes' faces--appreciation for the respect they received to be the best they believe they can be, however few and far between those opportunities may arise?

The smile on my face throughout the article, however, was quickly wiped away. The poll result stating that 62 percent of Americans didn't want their own child in a school with a so-called retarded child saddened me. How could those who want the best for their child deny someone else's child? How many of those 62 percent believe in the "No Child Left Behind" program and what do they think it means? It seems the only thing worse than having these afflictions is being surrounded by a society that doesn't understand them. Thank God for the Eunice Shrivers of this world. I pray they succeed in educating us in compassion as they celebrate and uplift these blessed individuals.

STEVEN WHITE

Belleville, Mich.

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