Remember that old song..."Lookin' for love in all the wrong places, lookin' for love in too many faces..". Well, I am looking for love in as many places as I can see it. It looks differently in every place I look, and I like what I see.
Yesterday, Adam graduated from his educational program. It is not the same as a regular high school graduation; here, the teachers take the time to single out each of their graduating students and BRAG ON THEM. Disability is not the focus, the focus is seeing with love and seeing the strength in each one. It has been that way since the beginning of his school career. I am thankful for that.
God pointed out my own blindness yesterday when I heard one of the underclass girls sing. The chosen song was Katy Perry's "Firework". She sang karaoke style, and had her back to the audience. Molly, you see, has autism. She has great difficulty relating to an audience and unfamiliar situations. She is in Adam's class, so I have seen her before yesterday. I must tell you, what I heard was not what I expected. She belted out that song and hit every note...she kept perfect time and sang beautifully. The volume of the voice track was turned lower than the music, so that we could really hear her. I never heard her speak before and thought she was non-verbal. I still don't know if she speaks or how often, but I do know that she sang with her whole heart. She loved what she was doing, and the audience loved her. Each time she got to the chorus, she jumped up and down with excitement and passion for the song. She got a standing ovation. I think she got one in heaven too. The tears were rolling down my face. So beautiful.
Last night I went with Adam to his prom. It was a little difficult for him as he does not like big parties, but he eventually settled down. I was looking for love there too. I was not disappointed. I saw all the proud parents and I saw students dancing with abandon. They were having a great time. There were a few couples there, boyfriend and girlfriend, and they were wonderful. So caring and respectful of each other. Some of our youth of today could learn a lesson from them.
One couple in particular were just friends, but they showed such an endearing love for each other. It appeared that they had not been together for a long time; they hugged and jumped up and down when they greeted each other. Then the young woman, who was quite a bit taller than the young man, bent down and started stroking his head. She was gentle and blessing him, and then she kissed him right in the middle of the top his head. So touching! Imagine if all of us were that comfortable to go beyond the initial hug and quick kiss on the cheek, and actually jump up and down for joy because we are so glad to see someone we love! I may try it. And soon.
So I think I will keep looking for love in all the places...I think I will keep finding it and I think I will like what I see. Love is a four letter word, but it is spelled so differently every time I see it. Yesterday it was spelled Adam and his friends. Thanks for stopping by and opening my eyes again Lord. xoxoxoxoxo
