March 16, 2010 4:55 PM
Jonny - it's the little things that matter
From Jonny's teacher:
Barbara -Jonny went to the assessment center with me today because we are behind in the school's shredding.
There are these little qualities about Jonny that are so great...we had to empty the bag a few times (they get big and heavy!) -- he insists carrying the full ones to the door to help the custodian take it out later.
Yesterday Mr. L told me that Jonny saw him in the lunch line (with crutches because he just got back from his surgery) and Jonny jumped up from his table to help him go through the line...he was very touched. These little intangibles (which are actually big things) make him so dear.
Do you know how much it means to hear that your child has real compassion? Ironically, many people would see Jonny - and his family - as victims .
Peter Singer, animal rights activist and bioethicist at Princeton - would even have the government give parents like us 30 days after birth to terminate his life.
But hooray for Jonny - who really "gets it" about what life is all about!
See also: About that Extra chromosome. . . .Down syndrome rocks!
Posted in Down syndrome, Everyday Heroes, Family | Permalink
Comments
Thank you Barbara. What a beautiful post! How sad for those who can't see past a supposed limitation clearly enough to see the handiwork of God.
You're an amazing mom! I treasure your friendship.
Posted by: Jeanette | March 16, 2010 6:09 PM
What a blessing, Barbara! I look forward to the days ahead when my two Down Syndrome grandbabies (both adopted)are noticed for their compassion and love. You might remember praying for Charity last year when she was hospitalized and near death. This Sunday she will be FOUR years old! And she has a new adopted little brother (born Oct 24, 2009) with an extra chromosome. For more info, check the blog: www.homeschoolblogger.com/housefullofjoy
Yes, I love my little ones!
Alice
Posted by: Alice Tucker | March 16, 2010 6:09 PM
Way to go Jonny! Stories like these are one of the reasons we are choosing Down syndrome through adoption, and one of the ways we will change peoples minds about Down syndrome. Thank you!
http://workinprogresspage.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Jill | March 16, 2010 8:06 PM
this is beautiful.
Posted by: christine | March 16, 2010 9:47 PM
Dear Barbara, What a Beautiful picture of Jonny and a sweet article. I remember when Jonny was born, I told you I would be there for you in your DARK HOURS...Well it seems that the LIGHT HOURS have out shined the dark ones. I am so happy to see and hear about Jonny and your other sons. These "Special Needs" folks are just that "SPECIAL" God seems to shine in and through them. How very precious these Special Folks are. Thank you for sharing. Our Melissa is not as high functiong as Jonny but she to has a sweet spirit and others see Jesus in her...God's Blessings to you and Tripp and the love and care you give to your sweet family...Prayers and Love to you all..Becky
Posted by: Rebecca Wold | March 17, 2010 2:27 AM
Hello from Spain. Congratulations, you have a great family and a big heart. I translated to spanish subtitles some scenes of the video of Maddy an yours sons with Down syndrome in may blog. Some years ago I upload a video to give thanks to all the parents with sons and daughter with Down syndrome. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUydn_1kB6k
God bless you.
Posted by: Santiago Chiva | March 17, 2010 6:31 AM
Thanks for sharing this Barbara, made me reach for the tissues! My son is also chromosomally blessed with an extra 21st and his teachers are always letting me know how caring and helpful he is in class. Goes to show you that if more individuals with disabilities are "allowed" to meaningfully participate in all aspects of society, so many people could experience this and be blessed! Especially now as the nation's moral compass continues to deteriorate...very ironic.
(Perhaps with stories like this you could warn readers "Tissue Alert" similar to the use of the phrase "Spoiler Alert"!)
Posted by: Amy | March 17, 2010 8:46 AM
Way to GO Jonny! Thank you for setting a fine example for other children!
-Shannon in Austin
Posted by: Shannon Best | March 17, 2010 6:18 PM
