Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Best For All Concerned

I have been an “Aunt” since the 3rd grade. Most the kids in my class thought I made up the title as according to them I was not old enough to be an Aunt. But I was, and the arrival of my niece was the single most wonderful thing that had ever happened to me up to that point.

When my niece was born in 1966 my brother and his wife were advised to place her in permanent custodial care with the State. The experts agreed doing so would be best for all concerned. Fortunately, her parents rejected the advice and took her home. Indeed, the first few years of her life were rough, consisting of surgeries, evaluations and lots of uncertainties. But she was a fighter and she came here with a purpose, on a mission and always attached to God.

Who knew what a blessing and gift she would be to our family? The lives she has inspired, the lives she has changed and the lives she has saved. Who knew? How could anyone in 1966 know what the future of our family would be or the role she would eventually play?

Admittedly, growing up listening to someone in constant and audible conversation with God, really makes an impression on you. Even more so when it appears she stops talking long enough to listen to an answer. Hmmmm. She has had a profound influence on my life as well as the lives of my children.

She was supposed to be a burden on everyone associated with her care. Supposedly she would never really contribute to or connect with the family. It would be better for all concerned if she weren’t here. What audacity!

Not only did God have a plan for her, he has given her the physical health and strength to carry out that plan. Perhaps God knew she would provide years of companionship for her Grandmother living alone as a widow. Perhaps God knew her challenges would teach many of us patience, tolerance and acceptance of others. Perhaps only God truly knew what was actually best for all concerned.

3 comments:

Angie @ Many Little Blessings said...

Sorry for the unrelated comment -- but I just tried to send you information about joining the Catholic Mothers Online blog roll, and I received the email back. Please email me directly at: catholicmothers @ comcast . net

Becky said...

I tagged you....check out my blog!

Becky said...

By the way...I really enjoyed meeting your niece at the wedding. She really liked Reese and I enjoyed talking with her.