Share the Love

Before we had John, we were not really aware of people with Down syndrome. Of course we would see them out and about in the community with their parents or see them as patients, but there was no reason for us to get to know them on a personal level. At that time in our lives, they were just kids who were to be kept at arms length mostly because of fear of people who didn't look the same as us and some out of misunderstanding of Down syndrome and some out of just plain ole arrogance.

But then...we had John and we were forced to change our attitudes and our hearts.Thank the Lord that we had 8 months to prepare for him. The change didn't come instantly and is still ongoing today. But I can say that our hearts and priorities have changed. And I can see where John has been used in the lives of others in the 8 years that he has been with us. John and I'm sure other children with Down syndrome are the most loving and forgiving individuals that I have ever met. He loves me unconditionally and his memory is short even when I mistreat him. And that is the kind of love that we all long for and need in our lives. So I share him with others as much as I can by exposing him to others just like I did with my others. There have been many people come through the doors of my home (mostly teenagers with my other children) and all have gotten to know John whether they wanted to or not.

These same people have returned time and time again over the years and we have seen them include John in their outings and play with John and hug on him. The more I see this, the more I realize that one of the best things that I can do as John's Dad is to share him. Share him with others because we all need the type of  love that John so freely gives.

So rather then be embarrassed or ashamed of your son or daughter with special needs, be proud of them and share their ability that God has given them - the ability to LOVE UNCONDITIONALLY.