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October 27, 2006
Four out of Five
Awhile ago, I read the statistic that at least 80% of detected Down's Syndrome babies are aborted. The statistic has haunted me, maybe because my life has been deeply touched by people with Down's Syndrome. Wikipedia notes an even higher figure, citing an article which calls this trend "eugenics by abortion" (and suggesting positive alternatives, like adoption and developing disability sensitive environments).
In honor of my friends...
Brett--my childhood friend's little brother. You had no fear. I remember sprinting across a field trying to catch up to you as you wandered cheerfully off. I remember the story of when you nonchalantly walked out your front door, unknown to anyone else. Your parents--and eventually the police--frantically searched for you, only to find you curled up, peacefully sleeping in the local cemetery. You're all grown up now. I hear from your sister that you are happy and working a great job.
Noah--I only knew you for a week, when I was babysat for a conference as a teenager. We all fell in love with you, especially noticing how you watched out for the littler guys. We made T-shirts, with everyone's foot prints. Yours are the only ones I remember--your purple footprints were shaped differently than any other kid's. I love your footprints.
Amy--I married Tim, and got you as a cousin--what a perk! Your exuberance is contagious. I have an image in my mind of you dancing with your headphones on, singing at the top of your lungs. And I have another image of you lovingly taking care of your baby doll. You're our social butterfly, making everyone around you feel comfortable and at home. I love watching you and Tim pal around--you bring out a side of him that really touches my heart. When you walk into a room, you make us all feel like family.
Mark--you are so faithful at church. You do every task--whether its collecting offerings or handing out bulletins--with your whole heart. It's always fun hearing about the latest basketball and football games as we talk after church. My favorite thing that you do for all of us is the way you spend part of each Sunday afternoon searching through the hymnal so that you can pick a hymn in the evening that reinforces the sermon. It makes the truths of the sermons so personal to sing through them beforehand.
You all live your life with such joy and courage. Thank God you weren't the four out of five.
Thinking | By Tim and Jo | 12:19 AM
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