From Scottie’s Mom
Dear You-Know-Who-You-Are,
Thank you.
Thank you for looking at Scottie in the eyes and talking to her even if she doesn’t respond appropriately.
Thank you for speaking to her in Spanish and engaging her even if you don’t speak the same language.
Thank you for saying hello to her as you walk by her even if she doesn’t say hello back.
Thank you for cheering for her while she attempts to climb the rock wall even though she was irritated, frustrated, and not speaking kindly.
Thank you for cutting up her chicken for lunch.
Thank you for inviting her into your space even if she tells you to move.
Thank you for laughing with her and not laughing at her.
Thank you for treating Scottie with respect and dignity.
Thank you for giving her grace when she is “off”.
Thank you for asking questions because you want to know her better.
Thank you for including her.
Thank you for enjoying her bluntness, inappropriate dancing, and her attitude.
Thank you for dancing around a fire pit with her.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know Scottie.
Thank you for telling me that you really like her.
Thank you for accepting her quirks, awkwardness, and bluntness.
Thank you for loving her little sister well and giving her a space to just be herself and not just Scottie’s sister.
Thank you for sharing stories about the cute and funny things Scottie did because it shows me that you get her.
Thank you for loving her well.
We appreciate your simple gestures, quick acceptance, and ready smiles. You will never fully know how your kindness affects not only Scottie but her entire family.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Scottie’s Mom
The Makarios staff, American missionaries, and the Trinity team once again showed me that God’s kindness towards Scottie (and us) comes in the form of other people. He has surrounded our family with amazing people - from birth to now. Our hope for Scottie’s life has always been that she would be the catalyst for others to learn to accept and love ALL people.
Is there someone you need to thank? Is there someone you feel the Holy Spirit nudging you towards to give hope, encouragement, or appreciation? Is there a special needs person that you could befriend? Is there a special needs parent that you could bless by providing a date night? Is there an opportunity for you to sing and dance with wild abandon because there is a 15 year old who wants someone to engage them? Don’t wait. Don’t hesitate. Take action this week because someone needs a little hope and encouragement.
As always, it starts with me.