March 30, 2008

A Moment in Front of the Camera

I often write about our escapades with Dani and our battle with her disabilities. I do this because I am convinced it helps others who are in the same situation. I also share about my husband and his godly wisdom, guidance, and support through all our years together. I don’t, however, speak much about our son, Drew. Though fun, intelligent, creative, and kind, Drew is actually quite shy, so out of respect I keep a lid on many things I would otherwise love to write about. It’s just something a mother must do.

His college major supports his natural tendency. Like my husband, who is a professional photographer, Drew feels most comfortable behind the camera and has thus chosen a major in film. Avoiding the front of a lens as if it were the plague, his true joy is found behind the camera, which is why getting any kind of a picture of him is akin to striking gold. We happened to hit the jackpot Easter weekend when my husband snapped a picture of him on the deck, as a result I am proud as a peahen (that’s a girl peacock). Why am I happy? Because I treasure something very special about our son Drew. His ability to communicate.

Jimmy and I will never fully know Dani due to her disabilities. She cannot talk or share her feelings and because of this we must wait until we all get to heaven to meet her fully. This privilege, however, has not been stolen from us when is comes to our son, which is why we never take it for granted. I absolutely love talking with Drew to hear how he feels, what he's planning, how he thinks, and what his opinions are. It simply fascinates me to hear him express himself and I thank God for every moment I get the honor to do so.

It's tempting to mute our children by telling them to be quiet or tune them out as we go about doing our own thing. We think they either have nothing to say or what they say is unimportant, failing to understand what a privilege it is that they can express themselves. It is something we often take for granted, at least until it's taken away.

If you haven't stopped to marvel at your child's ability to communicate, take the time to listen to them today. Pay attention to what they say and thank God for their ability to think, reason, and express themselves. It is a gift that enriches life beyond measure. Treasure every word your child says, pray for them without ceasing, and savor the moment, for one day it could all be gone.

Visit Nancy's Website: Olive Leaf Ministries

6 comments:

Jin said...

I'm new to blogging, I was shopping around, and ended up here. I love what you have to say. You verbalized my feelings in this post. About your "normal" son, about when you get to truly meet your daughter in heaven... You have an excellent outlook and it is so refreshing to hear from another christian mother with a handicapped child. Thank you for posting! I was moved by what I read and have referenced your blog in mine- if it bothers you, let me know, I will take it down!

Longmeadow Mama said...

Thank you for your sweet comment on my blog. I'm always glad to share smiles!
After reading your profile I know your comment is nothing short of a God thing. We have an 11 year old son with Asperger's (on the autism spectrum) and have had some VERY difficult days recently. My husband and I are DRAINED. I am so very interested in your Bible study geared towards special needs parents. How do I find this valuable resource of yours?
Thanks again. God's timing is absolutely amazing!
Kelli

Longmeadow Mama said...

Never mind, Nancy...I just ventured a little further in your blog and found the links that got me to your online bookstore. I will be sharing this with my hubby and look forward to purchasing your book.
God bless you, your family and your ministry.
Kelli

elaine @ peace for the journey said...

Nancy:
Thanks for visiting my blog. I alway enjoy meeting new friends, albeit I prefer the face to face encounters.

Nancy, I love this tribute to your son. I have four children, and I have to work very hard to make sure they all get the press that they need.

My oldest son gets a lot of the attention...he has the midas touch with everything he does; his heart is passionately attached to his God, and boasting about him comes with a natural ease.

His younger siblings often fall prey to his shadow, and I am keenly of their need to be seen.

Thank you for reminding me of this sacred truth to parent without boundaries...to listen with intensity...and to love with lavish expression.

peace~elaine

Laura said...

Hello, friend! I am so happy that you stopped by to see me at the Welblog, because now I have found another kindred spirit! To read as your story unfolds is a precious privilege. This post touched me particularly, because we have in our household, a prepubescent young man who is going on thirty five, it seems. Sometimes, communication is such a challenge. But you encourage me to rejoice in his uniqueness, and celebrate his words. thank you, dear one!
Blessings,
Laura

valerie said...

Nancy,
This post blessed me so much.
Thank you for the reminder to pay attention and treasure every word our children are sharing with us.
I have been blessed with a son who is 27 and a daughter who is 25.
I thank God OFTEN for being so good & faithful. I never want to take for granted the gifts God has given me.
You are an amazing woman of God and He is using you in a mighty way.
I'm anxious to take a look at some of your books the next time I get to go to Mardel.
Love,
Valerie