What I learned from my son over the last 27 years

Happy Birthday J.W.
Today is my son's 27th birthday and this post is dedicated to him.

J.W,
I have learned many things from you over the years
and I thought I would share them here.

Many years ago, I was told you would not live to see this age.
Well, here you are.
I learned what man says is not necessarily true.
God is in control, not the doctors.

While you didn't hit the childhood milestones
when the doctor's thought you should,
you hit them when you hit them.
I learned to run my race from that.
It is not necessary to compete with others.

Run your race at your own pace.


I learned that it takes just as much energy to smile
as frown. As I look back, you are a smiler, and
what a charming smile you have.

You see people as people. Disabilities don't exist.
You accept people equally.
I have learned from you that all people really
are created equal.
I've learned to look through the eyes that God gave me.

I smile when I see this photo.

You gave your franc's to someone that was in need.
You kept a couple for yourself but shared what you had with someone else.
The gift was compassion and to share with those in need.


You have an incredible sense of humor.
This photo that was taken at Jeff and Dorothy's house when Jeff
was home in July says it all.

You were not well that day but carried on.
To look at this picture, you'd never know how ill you were.
A smile and a sense of humor can carry you through anything.

I am so proud of you and the young man you have become.

Happy birthday and may God bless you with many more.
We love you.

Thank you for teaching your mom so much.