The race is not always won by the swiftest,
the battle is not always won by the strongest;
…..nor does success always come to those with the most intelligence…..
Ecclesiastes 9:11 NET
[Tweet “You’ll never know what you can do until you try, try again. #downsyndrome #perseverance”]
In the “old days” (1970 and before!) Bethany would have been labeled a mongoloid idiot- an imbecile incapable of learning but the lowest of tasks- and certainly not educable.
But hallelujah! Bring out the wrecking ball- ignorant mistruth is being demolished every day! People with limitations and ID are rejecting stereotypes! Limits? Limits are made to be challenged!
[Tweet “”Created in God’s image; every person has potential, a divine #purpose and glorious possibilities in Him.”]
As Bethany’s mom, my challenge is battling LOW EXPECTATIONS and not pursuing UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS.
I know she’ll never be an astronaut or a doctor, but I also don’t really know what she’ll be able to achieve and learn. Sooooo- look out world- We’ve got a girl who doesn’t know what she can’t do!
[Tweet “”Everything is hard until it isn’t.” – Karshnick #life”]
When Bethany began dancing 10 years ago, I was “scared” she wouldn’t be able to “keep up” with the other girls. 9 recitals, competitions and 40+ routines later, let’s just say I don’t worry so much. 😉
When she began reading sight words- I was encouraged but still afraid she wouldn’t be able to really read books. (She reads and understands her NLT Bible- I’d say that’s pretty awesome 😉 )
When she began piano lessons, I despaired she was ever going to have a break through and “get it”. (when will I learn? 🙂 )
[Tweet “Perseverance is the secret of all triumphs.- Victor Hugo #perseverance #downsyndrome”]
But the point is- if we hadn’t tried to do hard things- she (we) wouldn’t know what she could do at all!
After a year of practicing piano- one hand songs, something happened. Breakthrough! A spike of accomplishment! (A big shout of thanks to her piano teacher and sister-in-love, Adrienne- and Miss Betty- who cheers her on through tears 🙂 )
Was it worth the tears during practice time? I think the joy on her face confirms it was worth the “pain” and frustration.
My mother’s heart keeps beat as Bethany plays, “Nothing But the Blood of Jesus”.
Why do hard things?? Because she can!
Surprising Treasures: In due season – we will reap- if we faint not! or Keep on Keepin’ on- there’s a reward at the end. #promise
Special needs or “normal.” Everyone should try hard things. Hard things are the right things. Bethany is definitely “a trier” of hard things. Not many sixteen year olds are begging for a real job. Bethany is asking for that hard thing too!
I’m beginning to see- if I bypass fear, frustration, and complaining- I can move straight to joy in the Lord and rejoice in the “hard” places! <3 Thanks Bethany! You're a great teacher!
My heart rejoices with this blog. We all have handicaps. Some are just more notable than others. Thank you, Barclays, for never giving up, even when it is hard. You still inspire me, decades later.
Handicaps- Brokenness- disabilities- differing abilities- What the Lord must see when He looks at us all! And yet- His great love pursues us- Oh the wonders of His power and grace!
She’s a beauty, and what an inspiration. I don’t even know how to play the piano.
awwwww- thanks Lux! I just love seeing God help her move forward- even if it’s slowly- the milestones are all the sweeter! <3
Thank you for how you remind others of the Beauty in everyday!
Your welcome! I know you see the myriad miracles in our daily life too, Marie! Hug and blessings and thanks for taking the time to stop by and encourage me! 🙂