Well said. I've always believed that every child, whether born with Down Syndrome, autism, or handicapped in any way is a blessing from God. Every one of them can teach us something meaningful about life - no matter how long they are with us.
When I was in High School and my father was still in the Air Force, I volunteered a couple of Summers in the Air Force's CHAP (Children Have a Potential) Program and worked with some of the most severely handicapped young boys at the center. What began as an Eagle project evolved into one of the most fulfilling chapters of my life. Even the slightest progress with one of those boys was cause for celebration. And, though I am far from being a perfect father, that experience made me cherish the blessing of my own four children even more.
Before I moved to Washington last year I worked at a rehab center for the mentally challenged. The best job I ever had!