Affected by Disability - Why I {Love} These People

<3 Laura and Laura Mae 2007 <3

    
   My journey with those affected by disability began six years ago during a time in my life when I was going through a spiritually lean time- I was struggling with authority, trying to "catch" a boyfriend, experimenting with the wilder side of teen-hood, and definitely not wanting to hang out with the "misfits" of society. Just finishing my first year of college, I had a great desire to experience the world, break free from my parents, and ultimately, get out of the house. Using the tactic of, "I think now is the time to go on a missions trip", I started applying and planning my way of escape on the longest missions trip I could find...of course to my dream vacation location, Australia/New Zealand. God though, had different plans. My wise parents easily caught on to my ploy and quickly put the brakes on my aspirations and bravely faced the ensuing anger.{This makes me oh so much more thankful for them}

   After things calmed down, my mom began opening up the idea to me that yes, getting away for a couple of weeks in the Summer wouldn't be bad, but maybe choose something in the States. Agreeing to this, she then brought to me an idea that I will forever be thankful for..."Laura, why not work at a Joni and Friend's Family Camp?" At first I wasn't thrilled. Me! Spend time with "quirky" kids who drool and need to be served without giving anything back?! I decided I could do anything just to get out of the house for a while, so I agreed to go.

   I will never forget those two precious, life changing weeks.


   God immediately put me in the path of some wonderful girls who LOVED Him and radiated meek and gentle spirits. Next, I was placed with a sweet little girl who had Downs Syndrome. She was perfect for me, we even shared the same name! Her soft and gentle ways soon began to pull at my heartstrings and sooth my cracked and dry spirit. God was definitely working through this child! Just a couple of days after being with her, we were sitting on a swing together when God brought my sin to the forefront of my life. I will never forget that moment when I looked into this beautiful child's eyes and saw God's love for me more than I ever had before. It hit me, if God could perfectly love this child who the world viewed as imperfect mentally and physically, why had  I been questioning His love for me? Wasn't His grace and forgiveness large enough to extend to us both? I was elated! My life and soul now felt ready to be filled by Christ and His truth.

   Ever since then, I have always had a soft spot in my heart for those affected by disability. Though sometimes not the easiest people group to love, their lives can bless you just as much as you can bless them, if not MORE. Keep in mind, they are people just like you who need to know the freedom that can only come from Christ Jesus. Let me encourage you today to take the step, pursue someone outside of your comfort zone, and be willing to see the gospel shine and your life be blessed!

   ~Blessings~
      Laura