English
EspañolBecause of its personal quality, every human life has its own singular and unique meaning – a unique value. We all have a mission in life. The mission of children with disabilities seems to be to show the world the immense value of each human person – staring with their own life – the extraordinary personal beauty and the true meaning of unconditional love.
Text
“Families who lovingly accept the difficult trial of a child with special needs are greatly to be admired […] People with disabilities are a gift for the family and an opportunity to grow in love, mutual aid and unity”. (The Joy of Love, n.47)
Commentary
It was not until a few years ago that life brought me near some families with children with different abilities, such as children with Down Syndrome or with great motor difficulties. These difficult, complex situations need constant attention and care, a lot of sensitivity, and dedication from their families and close friends. Nonetheless, in these families, I have been able to witness magnanimous joy carried out through self-giving and sacrifice. Precisely where others see pain, these families reflect the profound bliss that comes from experiencing a boundless and unconditional love. There is no other explanation than love.
Children with disabilities are – by a paradoxical and fascinating miracle – great teachers of love and its tenderness. They teach their parents, siblings, grandparents how to love. A vast, truthful, selfless and self-sacrificing, unconditional, joyous, and trusting love. An artistic masterpiece and they do so without words. They use the heartbeat of their persons, which comes out in their eyes, from the deepest depths of their fragile and impaired bodies. These children magnify the hearts of their families.
