Heaven's Special Child

I'm a daily reader of Dear Abby. I like her wit, her matter-of-factedness, and sometimes her inspiration but, mostly I like when she shares poetry of others that pertains to something I'm familiar with.

The author of this poem, Edna Massimilla, wrote it after her daughter -- a child with Down syndrome -- was born.

Abby said "I have always found its message to be very moving and, when I spoke to Edna, she told me it was written to emphasize that every creation is for a purpose. She's in her 90s now and still writing poems and songs -- especially for children with disabilities."

I have a niece with Cerebral Palsy. Thankfully, hers is a fairly minor case. She does walk, play and communicate - though as she grows only the Lord knows what is in store. It's been very important for Zoe to be normal. I admire her mother for that. I had to share.


HEAVEN'S VERY SPECIAL CHILD

A meeting was held quite far from Earth.

It was time again for another birth.

Said the Angels to the Lord above --

"This special child will need much love.

"Her progress may be very slow,

"Accomplishment she may not show.

"And she'll require extra care

"From the folks she meets down there.

"She may not run or laugh or play,

"Her thoughts may seem quite far away.

"So many times she will be labeled

"'different,' 'helpless' and disabled.

"So, let's be careful where she's sent.

"We want her life to be content.

"Please, Lord, find the parents who

"Will do a special job for you.

"They will not realize right away

"The leading role they are asked to play.

"But with this child sent from above

"Comes stronger faith, and richer love.

"And soon they'll know the privilege given

"In caring for their gift from heaven.

"Their precious charge, so meek and mild

"Is heaven's very special child."