Last week was my nephew Paul's birthday. Paul is 23, the same as our oldest son, Thomas. The day Paul was born, we learned he had an extra chromosome...otherwise known as Down syndrome. We had a 6 week old healthy baby boy. His parents were faced with years of health issues, sleepless nights and the great unknown. As it turns out, they are 2 of the most resilient people I know. Paul is a gift to the family and in many ways has taught so many lessons to our boys.
The past few days were spent celebrating Thomas' graduation from college. I wondered what it must be like for his parents to watch that and yet never be able to experience it themselves. Paul, on the other hand, was happily counting his birthday presents in the dining room, joyfully unaware that he missed any kind of milestone. In fact, he pretty much felt that since there was a party for Thomas, it MUST be his birthday!
Paul has amazing retention for animals and people. I would put him up against anyone in the category of "name that animal". We are not talking about duck and dog, but specific species! He loves his brother, mom, and dad and lives to go to Disneyland which they do quite often. In fact, when it comes to Disney characters, he knows each and every one and even makes extensive lists of "good guys" and "bad guys". Last Halloween, he assigned us characters that he would like us to dress like for the big day: luckily, I was not Cruella DeVille!
My sister and brother-in-law are both pastors and Paul is very blessed to be with two kind hearted, patient, and giving people. Paul will never work or graduate or carry on a long meaningful conversation. Their victories as a family are very different from ours (or yours). Last week I cried as I watched my son's high school give the character award to a young man with Down syndrome. He raised his hand in victory as if to say, "Yes! I am loved and I am cool just like you!" It was an awesome moment and one I am sure his family will not soon forget.
Perspective is a wonderful thing. We are so grateful for our boys and our family, and especially one very special boy named Paul who has taught us all what life is really for...to love and to be loved.
Happy Birthday, Paul and may God always bless and keep you safe!
Coffee Talk Auntie
