Joshua's Words on "Special Needs"

So, we think he doesn't always "get" it...that we can make it okay, and he'll never know.

But we can't...and he does.

Joshua has been reading this Tony Dungy devotion book that he got for Christmas last year. It's about influence...how to be an influence, and ABOUT being an influence. He will occasionally post a Facebook status about someone from his life who was a big influence on him.

In March, there is always a big campaign called "Spread the Word to End the Word." The "R" word. You know what I'm talkin' about, right? 

So, Joshua had been reading his Tony Dungy book, and some of the "R" word posts on Facebook. He also said that two verses from a recent sermon really spoke to him: First, in Genesis, where God created everyone in HIS image. EVERYONE. And then in Matthew, where Jesus said to treat everyone how you want to be treated. EVERYONE.

He said that he was sick and tired of being silent about it, because it just wasn't right.

Joshua can write him some dramatic Facebook posts. He likes to use very descriptive words, some of which he makes up himself. You just never know what he is going to say. So, I thought that you might want to read something that Joshua wrote himself...just in case you're like me, and thought maybe "they" don't understand.
Because this post? I read it...and then I cried...because it came straight from his heart:

"In a way I think when people treat those with special needs. In a mean way it is not nice at all. The bible states that all people are created by The Lord. In a morphincal way. I think that is wrong for treating those with special needs. I will not stand aside and let people like my self be treated in a mean way. Because we are just created in the image of The Lord god has created people with special needs for a reason. Even if one stand's alone. I commonly have to spread the word with camp barnabas and with my companion. Jenni Hayes as well as many others whom has special needs. Quit using the r word. Because we have feelings and we are one in The Lord. We are have one heart in The Lord. The Lord even proclaim's to don't judge people at all unless you want to be judged. I have to happen to have a heart for people even people whom all has special needs. So treat people the way you want to be treated Matthew 7:12 I care for people. I believe that everyone has a heart of Christ within us. Who will stand up with me for those people whom has special needs.thank you."

Preach it, Joshua!

I was flying high with pride at my little Norma Rae.

BUT THEN, he said, "and if anyone wants to make fun of people with special needs or disabilities...they're gonna get a kick in the face from THIS GUY with special needs."

Annnnd...there it is.
So high...and then so low.

"In fact, some parts of the body that seem weakest and least important are actually the most necessary." 1 Corinthians 12:22