The Power of ONE: Lindsey Walker

So, I'm writing 31 days on Down Syndrome...our experiences, memories, etc...on my Facebook.

Today, I wrote about the power of ONE.

On some of my Facebook posts, I'm using stuff I've already written...but haven't put out on Facebook.

That's cool, right? I hope so.

My blog isn't private right now, but I don't typically link it to my Facebook because of Joshua. I feel like I can write more freely on my blog, because he doesn't read it. If he figures it out, I'm sunk.

During Joshua's 2nd year of Kindergarten, he met Lindsey Walker. Lindsey's mom was a teacher at their school, and they lived in our neighborhood. I don't know how it happened, or why, but Lindsey Walker latched on to Joshua...and would not let him go. She became his friend, confidant, protector and helper.

Her family also went to our church, so she and Joshua were in Sunday School and children's choir together. He couldn't get away from her if he tried! Lindsey Walker told him what to do and when to do it. She helped him when he needed help...and even sometimes when he didn't!

She fought WITH him...and she fought FOR him. She was a friend to Joshua, and a blessing to this Momma for sure!

Joshua and Lindsey Walker stayed friends all the way through school. I think they were even football managers together in the 7th grade. They graduated together, and Lindsey headed to college...to be a TEACHER.

Joshua's life would've been quite different without Lindsey Walker, I'm certain of it.

If you are a parent, tell this to your kids...if you're a teacher, tell your students...if you're a student, understand this: never underestimate the influence you can have in the life of even ONE other person.

All that Joshua accomplished in school first started with ONE teacher who believed in him...and ONE little girl...who took a chance on an unlikely friendship with ONE little boy...and it made ALL the difference in the world.

"The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense." Proverbs 27:9