I was at an installation banquet last week. It was a new organization to me (not to hubby), and I was hungry and looked forward to an evening of no cooking (I know, you’re thinking, “what cooking”)? The room was packed and the evening had a full agenda. It was a good evening that got even better when the entertainment arrived.
I was introduced to a handsome young man who writes, sings and plays his own songs. He has perfect pitch and rhythm, and can play any instrument. He writes poems that he then orchestrates. While I was in awe of his talent, I was in greater awe of his incredible gift. This young man uses his gift of autism to help other autistics.
I was humbled that evening at the sheer courage of this young man. How many of us look at someone and label them one way or another, but in the back of our minds we think “disabled.” This young man never once considered himself disabled. Instead, he considered his autism his greatest gift. I agree with this young man – he embraced his autism and it was powerful.
While I walked out of the banquet that night, I couldn’t help but think I was the one with the disability for failing to fully embrace each and every one of God’s beautiful creations. They are simply beautiful.
“Imago dei,” Latin for “the image of God,” refers to the unique imprint God placed upon humanity, identifying people as a special creation.
