"In every life there comes a time when that dream you dream becomes that thing you do."


I had lunch a few months ago with a dear friend that I had not seen in many years. We ran into each other about at our local grocery store and were surprised to find out that we were practically neighbors. We were both in a bit of a hurry that evening so we promised to get together to catch up on each others lives. Instead of dropping the ball like I usually do when presented this kind of situation I kept her business card prominently upon my desk as a reminder to follow up for a change.

The story is too long to relate here but our friendship goes back to over twenty years ago. Obviously much has happened to each of us over that time so two hours passed in what seemed like 30 minutes. In particular telling Ben’s story really took some time and surprisingly I discovered that my friend had faced some pretty serious health issues right around the time Ben was born. She also shared with me some other serious heartbreaks she had experienced along the way.

Ironically just before leaving for lunch I was telling Ben's nurse about meeting another exceptional family. It is a very odd thing but there is a sentiment almost universal among parents of exceptional children: please don’t think of us as super parents or special people or somehow going beyond the call of duty. We are ordinary parents facing extraordinary circumstances. If you are a parent with any sense of responsibility whatsoever you would’ve done the same thing as me and my wife, which is to do any and every thing possible to keep your child alive and help that child thrive as best he or she can.

Now before you think we’re not gracious or respectful of such compliments, let me assure you that they are definitely appreciated. It’s just that it seems quite embarrassing at times and some type of response is difficult. Perhaps it is because that it's another reminder that our kids are somehow different which in reality is not the case. There is no doubt that our son's health is compromised but that is also the situation of my asthmatic niece. Our children want the same things as a normal child: love, acceptance, inclusion, and a life full of fun-filled activities.

There is one difference though that I’ve honestly been fearful of writing about which makes this the most difficult blog entry I’ve submitted. Every human’s days are numbered and only God knows when He will want one of His children home. I’m a very selfish individual in regards to my family and loved ones. I want to be surrounded by those that I love until it is my time to see what is waiting for me in the next life. Children with special needs are obviously “wired” different than “normal” kids. Joan and I have not only seen but know of several special children that have moved on to live with God. In my opinion that is probably why we shun that stigma of being exceptional parents.

This sounds like a sick confession but I’ve occasionally planned Ben’s funeral in my mind. I cannot wrap my mind around that thought completely but in my deepest of dreams and the deepest moments of considering our situation I have to acknowledge those thoughts. The part that never becomes clear is the part where I’m supposed to move on afterwards. My hope is that Ben long outlives Joan and I so that we have to prepare Jessie for how her brother is cared for.

Because my friend has faced death in the face she can easily relate to our situation. Each day is a gift. Each moment is important. Every relationship is an opportunity. Just like our lunch that day, this life will pass us by before you know it. Make the best of it and enjoy it to it’s fullest!