Church camp has become a place where Reagan is supported and loved for who she is - unrelated to her enhanced genetic material.
We were blessed with bright sunny days filled with all the usual camp activities and cool summer evenings - perfect for campfire chats with prayer time and roasting marshmallows. Campers and counselors were vying for Reagan's attention to the point where I was told on more than one occasion "you have her all the time, its my turn." How my heart did soar to know that she is so loved, valued and respected!
Reagan was given a great honor this year at camp. Each year 2 children are chosen based on their Christian leadership and behavior to carry a wooden cross to lead the camp session into the final Mass. Reagan was chosen to lead the group this year - a mark of how she loves and lives her life in Christ. Down syndrome comes with many gifts, most notably unconditional love and a deeply caring heart. If only the rest of the world would take the time to look beyond her appearance and appreciate her gifts...
Please take the time to read this essay by Dennis McGuire, Ph.D., If People with Down Syndrome Ruled the World - an inspirational look into life and people with Down syndrome. What a wonderful world it would be and its all mine!
2 comments:
That's so awesome and very encouraging! I have a 7 year old daughter with DS that I homeschool and she went to church camp too, but only day camp, no overnights yet. I am enjoying your blog and will begin following it, thanks for sharing such great resources, information and your heart!
Lori, Thanks for your kind words! I'm going to mosey on over and visit your blog :-)
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