The Clowns of God

[Guest guest]

With the "worlds worst compliment" discussion, I felt moved to share this poem. I have changed the original words of "She" to "He" and pasted in my son's picture. It hangs on my desk at work for the last several years, to remind me that I have been given a gift that few others understand. Despite the emotional pain of caring for a child with a disability, there is still a beauty and understanding that few others have a chance to experience. It is very hard for many to overcome the "ugliness" and imperfections of the disability and look inward to see the beauty of the individual within. A thanks to all in this group for providing a place where we can share our joys, and our pains. Shane Avery

from “The Clowns of God†by West

I know what you are thinking

- you need a sign. What better one could I give

than to make this little one whole and new? I could do it, but I will

not! I am the Lord and not a conjurer. I gave this mite a gift I

denied to all of you - eternal innocence. To you, he looks imperfect

but to me he is flawless, Like the bud that dies

unopened or the fledgling that falls from the nest to be devoured by the

ants. He will never offend me, as

all of you have done. He will never pervert or destroy

the work of my Father's hands. He is necessary to

you. He will evoke the kindness

that will keep you human. His infirmity will prompt

you to gratitude for your own good fortune. More! He will remind you every day that I am who I

am, That my ways are not yours,

and that the smallest dust mite, While in darkest space, does

not fall out of my hand. I have chosen you. You

have not chosen me. This little one is my sign

to you. Treasure him!