We found specified gate, parked and walked to entrance. Walking with Curtis was always a little frustrating for me (he would do 'slow, cool stroll' and I am a brisk walker) but this time I knew there was something special awaiting that we should almost race to.

We were met by a well-dressed, executive-looking middle-aged man, who just happened to be Vice-President of Public Relations for Detroit Pistons. Talk about first class! He escorted Curtis not to his seat, but directly to Pistons bench, where Curtis' eyes grew almost as big as basketballs giant athletes had just started tossing around in their pre-game warm-up.

I was led to our primest of seats directly behind bench. A waitress visited only seconds after that, taking my order for refreshments. Everything was "on house". I saw one of assistant coaches introduce himself to Curtis, and next thing I know, well, guess who's center court tossing ball around with his hero, Isaiah? Soon, he was running court and shooting hoops with Bill Laimbeer, Dennis Rodman, Joe Dumars and rest of elite players!

At this point, I couldn't even imagine exhilaration that this young man who life never seemed to smile upon was experiencing at this very moment! I mean, how could anyone's wildest imagination even envision this ravaged spirit and body trying to "deek Bad Boys of basketball?" I just sat quietly in utter amazement, misty eyed and SO grateful to my legal friend and 'human' management of this professional sports team who arranged all of this for one person. A Canadian kid who was close to my heart

When warm-up was done, Curtis climbed up with me. The first half of game was great. The Pistons were pounding their opponents. A few of players even glanced back and motioned at their new teammate! By time half-time buzzer sounded I was certain Curtis' dream day was complete.

But hold on, this was only half time! The same assistant coach who invited Curtis onto hardwood floor pre-game, called for him to hang with team in sanctuary of dressing room during their much-needed break. Give ME a break!

I'll never forget what I think was widest smile I have ever seen as team emerged onto floor afterwards and my little guy 'cool strolling' as proudly as I've ever seen anyone. And much quicker than I ever recalled. What a night!!

The ride home was quiet. Opposite of ride there. Curtis slept most of long way home. I could only imagine his dreams. Canada Customs was kind and allowed him to sleep through their few brief questions for me. It was sad to see him sleepily stagger up sidewalk to his stark reality, after having just left a world where I'd bet no one would believe he had been.

Somehow I thought I would receive a phonecall from Curtis next day. But it never came. Two days later I had a very good reason to call him. My attorney and team had arranged to have every player on NBA Champion Detroit Pistons sign game ball from that night, and Federal Express it to my home address, to give to Curtis. An autographed yearbook was included too.

I couldn't wait to tell him. I mean, I was flabbergasted at this unexpected and over-the-top gesture! I recall excitedly dialing his number and deflation after hearing that "Curtis took off to Toronto yesterday." She went on to explain that she didn't know where he was or how to contact him. And neither did Children's Aid Society.

Little did I know that evening would be last time I would ever see Curtis. My instincts tell me that he is not with us anymore. But if he is, he has one great gift still waiting for him - The Ungiven Gift.

© Rick Beneteau

“According to your faith, so be it unto thee,” for “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.” (Matt 9:29, Prov 23:7) Where is your faith and what are you thinking?

Friends, we only have two sources of thought; that which we generate ourselves and that which is external stimulus. Both are in our direct control and we have a responsibility to control them. Again, Proverbs 4:23: "Keep thy heart with all diligence for out of it are issues of life."

In 5 years you will be sum total of books you’ve read and people you’ve associated with. In other words, you will be sum total of what you have allowed into your mind. If what you are allowing into your mind on a regular basis is not jiving with your 5 year goals, please be advised.