The day I became a mommy to a special needs child was the day I had to answer some important questions. Do I believe he is fearfully and wonderfully made?

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. -- Psalm 139:14

Do I believe he is made in the image of God?

So God created man in His own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. --Genesis 1:27

Yes, I believe these things about my son. I believe this about other people I see with physical and mental differences, but I thought I would ask you: do you believe these things are true? Are you raising your children to love other children in their schools the way God loves them?

I remember growing up and watching other kids mock children like my son. They would use hurtful names and gestures to describe them. It never sat well with me, but I would laugh with guilt as everyone else found humor in bringing them down to a lower level than themselves.

I never thought much about how I would teach my kids to love others who might look and act differently than they do. Now I can't stop thinking about it. I want to come along side other parents and teach them how to love my son and others like him--not with my love, but with God's love.

I am blessed and honored to have a son with Down Syndrome. October is national Down Syndrome awareness month. For me it is an opportunity to shout my love for these children from the mountain tops. Consider spending some time with your kids today, telling them about how much God loves children with special needs.

I am dedicating my blog to DS awareness for the month of October, you are welcome to follow along.

Blessings, Natalie

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