As I was walking to work today I was thinking about the children that I work with on a daily basis.
These are children who are 'slow learners', 'problem children' and 'under-achievers'.
I was listening to the song "Mighty to save" on my iphone with my earphones in - (Like a true Singaporean - walking and absorbed in their own world), and this line just struck me:
"Everyone needs compassion"
It made me think of the children and the families I interact with on a daily basis.
It made me think of the babies I have lost - and particularly the last baby I lost in March last year.
Our little baby had a genetic disorder called Trisomy 16.
There are times when children are born with Partial Trisomy 16 where they survive but are severely disabled.
Our baby had Full Trisomy 16 which is always fatal.
I have found that since my losses I have more of a heart for children who are struggling academically or socially.
The thought has often crossed my mind that I could have had a child who would of had many difficulties in life.
This has given me greater patience, love, understanding, compassion and care for children who need that 'little bit extra'.
There are definitely times where I feel myself getting impatient with the children I work with because they 'just not getting it' but then I stop myself and somehow think that this could be my child - and how I would want a teacher or therapist to be patient and love him through it all.
I ask God for extra patience and love for these children everyday!
I want to make a difference!
And as a Mommy to a child who struggles but fights so incredibly bravely every minute of the day...thank you!
ReplyDeleteWhen you become Mommy to a child with autism, your perspectives change irrevocably. The compassion of another person given to my child is something that touches the core of my being.
Love you my friend...
x
Wow Sandi, this has been so inspiring to read, something I can relate closely to. I work on a daily basis with children with Autism and yes a little compassion for the child and families go a long way. It is only human to feel 'tested' or feel yourself growing impatient, but then I often try and think of how the child must perceive our behaviour or request. Most of the time they don't see it from our perspective, or they have other diffculties/impairments (theory of mind, language delay etc)that impair their abilty to process what we want them to. And then, there is that other constant nagging factor, what if this was my child? would I not want someone to show them the same patience, compassion and love that I would..? And that helps me to change my perspective or see things from a different angle and to respect and acknowledge the way that this Disorder presents itself in different children... There are certain people that I feel God has chosen to work with learners with special needs and you my fellow speechie, are one of them. Think about you lots. You will make that difference wherever you are! Lots of Love xxx
ReplyDeleteDearest Sandi, as always I am humbled by my own daughter. All these children are blessed to have someone like you teaching them, someone with insight because of your brother, someone with God's love in their heart. God gifts us all and your gifting is your ability to love and care for children. You are truly called to this field of work.
ReplyDeleteGod has great things planned for you. Love you tons "Speechy"