Are We This Pro-Life?: Parenting Special-Needs Children

"I am firmly convinced that God places these special people in our midst to help us exercise the best parts of ourselves, our compassionate natures"
- Ol'Sox

" I sometimes think that the way our society is weeding the handicapped out at the root that is the womb (or as embryos, even, for those who Really like to Plan their families or overcome their own handicap of sterility), has a twofold effect.
On a somewhat superficial and base selfish level, it leaves folks unable to appreciate how truly blessed they are to be "Ordinary". They become susceptible to the sort of morbid dissatisfaction that comes from failing to be an American Idol of some sort or which results in eating disorders, self-mutilation and other repercussions associated with failure to be perfect somehow...in looks, brains, talent, exc.
But there is the fundamental level where--absent the opportunity to learn in person that a child with brain damage or genetic malfunction is every bit your essential "equal" (or sometimes "better") as a human being and having as a given the option to kill on sight such sub-humans--I think we end up with a very skewed notion of what is and is not Essentially human"
-Askel5

"And there hasn't been a day when he's felt sorry for himself. Not one day. He's teaching me more about courage, strength and heart by his example than I thought possible. Try feeling sorry for yourself when your kid can't go a day without nearly dying. Try to feel sorry for that kid when he gets up, brushes it off and goes back to playing. YUP. These kids DO teach us what it means to be human."
-Marie

Every moment is precious. Life is precious. Even if its short it can be filled with joy, humor and love..."
-Marie

What a wonderful thread. There is so much wisdom here. God bless all those who are disabled and their loving families.

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