To most, the concept of volunteering on Friday nights does not seem at all appealing. Those people, however, are dead wrong. Two years ago, in physical education class, Ms. Grunebaum informed us about the Special Olympics. Her enthusiasm and passion about the event was contagious and on a rainy Sunday afternoon, many student volunteers were running, dribbling, passing and dunking with a group of mentally-challenged adults. I was hooked.

The following spring, Ms. Grunebaum made me aware of an even better, more intimate opportunity to work with these special and sunny individuals. That is how my weekly vernal practice of volunteering was planted. Feeling awkward at first, any discomfort was melted by the easy-going smile of Hal, my partner and favorite athlete. Tall and handsome, with graying hair, Hal took my hand that first Friday night; I feel as if he's never let go. When I reflect on that precious hour I spend at North Middle School, where a number of adult homes congregate to play basketball, I realize it is more than just an hour of community service. It is an hour that shapes who you are, by seeing the world through someone else's eyes.

Although I know Hal might have tantrums or forget my name, it seems to me that being with him and the other brave athletes yields to unadulterated joy. It's a night of optimism and surprises. Hal has a special gift, or a "calendar in his head," with which he can name the day of the week a date lands on. The shirt he wears which reads "Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt" truly embodies the spirit in which we should all approach life.

This year's 6th annual Special Olympics Great Neck Games will be held on Sunday, June 10 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Great Neck North Senior High. For those interested in volunteering please call Alan Someck at 487-1692.