One of the greatest gifts
that Evan has brought into our lives is the discovery of deep and meaningful
connections with other people also facing healthcare challenges.
We are realizing nobody is
without personal challenges, however perfect their life may seem. Each of us
will experience the world with some kinds of struggles, which we learn to deal
with in our own way, adapting to overcome the challenges we face. When we can’t
see someone else’s personal trials they tend to go unnoticed. Mistakenly, we
believe that life is somehow easier for other people.
Because Evan’s challenges
are so visible, we find that people are compelled to share their own stories
with us. They do this partly in catharsis and partly in assurance that we don’t
struggle alone. Many people have confided in us that seeing Evan triumph so
joyfully over his struggles has inspired them to rise above their own. These
shared stories and confidences are treasures I feel honored to be trusted with.
I was reminded of this several
times last week: by a friend caring for a seriously ill wife, by a young wife
caring for her husband recently diagnosed with ALS, and by a mother caring for
her child with special needs. Each of these people shared some of their
struggles with me, knowing that I understand their world. A world that includes
hospital stays, doctor appointments, physical struggles, emotional struggles, financial
considerations, and the selfless giving of oneself to care for another person. What
a relief it is to know that some
other person knows what you are
enduring. Especially when the person you are telling has gone through similar
challenges and has somehow survived.
Understanding that at some
point in time everybody will face some sort of challenge has been one of the
most important defenses for us in overcoming sadness or even bitterness we may
have had about the difficulties we face. It is our turn to step up and know how fragile and vulnerable the human condition can be.
Recently I came across the
Children’s Craniofacial Family Blog Site:
Here
I found reassurance and reality in the writings of other parents. I am reminded
that someone else is going through the same motions (and emotions) that I am
going through. I know that someone
else really knows what my life is
like.
The
Children’s Craniofacial Association is a non-profit organization whose mission
is “empowering and giving hope to individuals and families affected by facial
differences”.
http://www.ccakids.com/
Without living through Evan’s
struggles I might have missed out on some friendships and connections that have
changed the way I live and the things I value. I treasure the
unique bond of knowing what others must face and being known by others who understand our struggles. It is a connection of our hearts that brings beauty and meaning to our lives.
No comments:
Post a Comment