July, 2007 -- So much of American society seems obsessed with perfection, especially physical perfection. Men’s and women’s magazine covers are graced with beautiful people. They have perfect, white teeth, rippling abdominal muscles, and fit, toned legs. Accustomed to such a narrow view of beauty, many people don’t know how to respond to or act around “imperfect” representations of humanity.

Some Native American Indian tribes have beautiful ideas about life. For instance, they don’t see Down syndrome children as less than normal. In fact, as Brennan Manning notes in his book, The Ragamuffin Gospel, they consider these kids “divine.” They believe that because of their capacity for displaying pure emotions, Down syndrome children are somehow more able to experience divine presence and the spiritual world. So rather than being marginalized and shunned, they honor these children.

Many parents have experienced that unsettling moment when the doctor delivers difficult news about their child —he will not be like other kids. He will require extra care. He may never achieve the things his parents have dreamed about.

But years later, if asked about their child, the parents’ fears will likely have turned into profound love. The joy brought into their lives by the child outweighs the extra attention, expense, and worry.

Parents learn through experience that these children have a connection with the divine and somehow bring that divine touch into the lives of their families.

Those open to the blessings of being different know it can mean a joy that knows no bounds.

Until next time...