I parked the van and got Alex and Dennis out just like I do everyday and began to walk up to the gate of the school. I didn't notice the extra sets of eyes on us at that point and focused on figuring out my strategy to get from point A to point B with the least amount of "staring." Honestly, that is what our drop offs had evolved too... sadly. But as we walked along, a few of the other kids went out of their way to come up to us. As I geared myself up to hurry them out to the playground, they began to talk all friendly to the boys and hold out their hands.
A wave of emotion washed over me as I realized that these kids were trying to give my boys high fives. Apparently, some of the teachers had already talked to their students about Alex and Dennis.
As you can imagine, tears were pooling up in my eyes.
Praising God for what He is doing.... and for all that He plans to do. His goodness never ceases to amaze me.
35 inspiring thoughts:
Not only is that wonderful for Dennis and Alex, but its wonderful for the other kids too that get a valuable lesson in compassion and looking at what's on the inside of someone instead of only the outside.
Although I think your boys are beautiful on both!
The thought of this makes ME teary eyed:) So awesome !
Gave me chills. How wonderful for you and the boys! I can imagine that it brought you to tears as their mom.
Hooray!
Praise God!!!
If all the world could be as sensative!!
One victory at a time!
Good job mom!!
Delighting in Him
Donna
That is awesome!
That is such a good bit of news. It only takes a couple of good children to create a healthy atmosphere in class.
Wish you the best luck.
Olga
Oh my, I'm crying all over my keyboard. It's amazing the power of your words to enable the teachers and students to understand what it's like walk in Dennis and Alex's shoes.
I'm praising God that He has softened hearts and opened eyes. I pray this is only the beginning.
Much Love,
Kathie
I just wanted to leave a note, because this is a great step in the right direction--but I would bet that it is going to get BETTER. I have a slightly different perspective because I'm not the parent of a child with special needs, but I am in a school setting and get to see some of the interactions between students. The first grade that I am placed at currently has a little boy who has mostly physical difficulties. The other students in his class not only don't stare, they all go out of their way to make sure that "A" is included in all activities and often fight to be his helper for the day. They include him in their games at recess and make sure he isn't the last one in line. Even the kids (sometimes especially the kids) who you wouldn't expect to be helpful secretly let him win at games sometimes, but they never talk down to him (he has some processing issues as well). At that age, I honestly wouldn't worry about the other kids adjusting to your boys...I think when they are involved from a young age, it gets to the point where their differences definitely aren't the first thing their friends notice. Glad they've taken the first step :)
Wow. I'm crying!!!
What an impact you've made on these other children, who may not get the lessons on compassion and the Golden Rule at home. For some this might be the first time they've been taught to look at the inside and not the outside. Great job!
Christine, thanks for leaving a comment on my blog!
It has been a blessing to me to visit and read a little of your blog. You have a beautiful family, and it is Awesome what the Lord is doing through your precious Alex and Dennis!!!
God Bless all of you!
Tears are pooling in my eyes, too! So sweet and what a great thing for Alex, Dennis AND all of the other kids.
I love the soft, teachable hearts of kiddos. All it takes for most kids is the truth delivered in a non-threatening, loving manner. You did such a good job of doing that in your precious letter.
That's awesome! :)
I am glad to know that I am not the only one who would cry over this. I'm telling you, it was the most precious moment. I am looking forward to taking the boys to preschool next week!
I am so glad the school has responded in such a way! Good for them!
Stares are so hard.... today we went to the library and there were 2 children WITH THEIR MOM, and they were staring... not JUST staring but following and gawking and then comments! Erika finally had had enough and said, "Have you seen what you need to see? If not, take a picture!"
I didn't know she said this, and wasn't pleased, but at the same time, I understand. :(
Once again, GOOD FOR YOUR SCHOOL!
That is great :)
Blessings,
Tami
Thanks, Christine, for visiting my blog and leaving a comment. I have just read a few of your posts and your "About Me" info. Wow! What a story you have to tell . . . it's beyond inspiring. I know I will be blessed by learning more about your amazing family.
wow. acceptance.
Wow! Walls are being broken down at that school! How different will things be for the next child who walks into that school a little bit "different" because you stepped forward to try to make a change for your little ones. Sometimes people just need a little nudge to do better- and it sounds like that letter, crafted so thoughtfully- was just the thing to get people thinking. Thank you for sharing that story...I know I will keep it close to my heart as we bring home our boys. Blessings, Jennifer
ahh that brought tears to MY eyes! I can't wait to hear how Alex and Dennis feel accepted more and more!
How wonderful - for everyone involved!!
Wow! I teared up as well!! Amazing, I love hearing it!!
Had to back up and read posts I had missed. Then I cried.
Praise God!
Christine- your letter to the children was so well put and after reading this post, I am crying tears of joy!
Lea
Made me cry too! I loved your letter. I'm so happy for all of you.
Julie
Awesome!! Good for your boys, and good lesson for the other kids as well :)
you said: "Praising God for what He is doing.... and for all that He plans to do. His goodness never ceases to amaze me."
I say:
meeetooooo!
Susan
What a fabulous result! I read your letter, it was great. Way to go in standing up for your kids! Jen
Did you know that tonight the season finale for Extreme makeover home edition is on and they're helping a family that has a son with spina bifida? 8/7 c on ABC
I was choked up just reading your post! How wonderful for you and the boys!
:)
You have two beautiful little boys. (Okay, you have a houseful of beautiful little boys and girls.)
Thank you for helping teach so many very important lessons to those who would otherwise not know about people who are just a little different on the outside but very much the same on the inside.
It's odd that you haven't blogged in 3 days. Hope everything is OK at your house.
Christine, I read your letter from the boys and I think it was just perfect. In my experience, we have had many stares, lots of questions....but then there are those friends. Those kids that God puts in Davin's life that just have a heart for my boy. They don't just say hi. They get to know him. I know God will do the same for your precious boys. I certainly know the tears that were welling up in your eyes:-) God bless those boys.
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