Why Are We Here? Special Macabees vs Special Olympics

Why are we here? This is the universal question regarding human existence. Some say we are here to serve G-d. Others say our purpose is to have a worthwhile life. The answer is a lot simpler: We are here to help each other. 

This was obvious Saturday evening, February 25, 2023, at the Los Angeles Westside Jewish Community Center (JCC) when the Special Macabees took on the Santa Monica Special Olympics team in their annual basketball game at the JCC. 

For the past 17 years men and women have volunteered their time, energy, and expertise to supervise male and female athletes with mental challenges to develop their basketball skills. Liz and Jeff Liss took on the task of creating the Special Macabees to fill a void in the Jewish community. Coaches supporting him over the years have been Rob Green, Elana Artson, and Jay Davies.

Yossie Bock, a retired electronic engineer, is another coach volunteer. He described an experience he had with one of the athletes. “A few years ago, I tried to teach Jonathan the way to run up and down the court. When he finally did it right, I don’t know who was more excited, him or I.” Bock is also responsible for helping a young boy with Asperger’s to improve his coordination using basketball as his teaching tool. He started with the child when he was six and today, at age 16 the boy can beat his mentor and plans on becoming an airline pilot. We know why Yossie Bock is here.

On Saturday night families of the developmentally delayed athletes showed their purpose. Their overwhelming support for their family member was heartwarming. Each athlete approached the registration table to pick up shorts and a T-shirt for the event with a mother, father, or sibling to ensure they received the correct sized outfit. 

Once the game started the rules of basketball were flexed so that every athlete had the opportunity to take a shot (or two or three) at the basket. The game wasn’t about winning or losing. It was about sportsmanship and the opportunity to play the game they love. One young man believes he plays for the Lakers and volunteers his expertise to help the Macabees.

Family members watched from the sidelines holding placards. One read, “Go Raphy! We love you!”

Throughout the game, the needs of the players were more important than the NBA rulebook. People were supportive of both teams without a harsh word against an opposing player. And after the Macabees won 61-55, all players—Special Olympics and Special Macabees—were treated as heroes as their respective coaches bestowed them with medals. 

Why are we here? To help each other like Liz and Jeff Liss, and all the team coaches help developmentally delayed adult athletes to engage in a game they fantasize playing and now have realized success. Family members, like Raphy’s brother, watch the game enthusiastically and are there for their siblings. 

Why are you here? To commit random acts of kindness, donate food, blood, or money to needed charities, listen to others, volunteer time to a worthwhile cause, or by simply letting people know they are appreciated. 

Now that you know, act upon it. 

Michael Thal is the author of the award winning novel, The Lip Reader.