Resources

Resources

Thick Glass

Thick Glass

October 05, 2010
 
By Colleen Swindoll Thompson
 


One of the realities of raising a neurologically disabled child is what I call “thick glass.”

Thick glass is the clear yet mostly impenetrable divider between a parent’s unconditional love for his or her child and the child’s seeming total lack of response — that disheartening vacant look. Parents grieve behind thick glass, ever longing to touch their child’s heart yet wondering if their reach gets through. But just as God touches our souls, I believe communion continues far beyond the spoken word or outward response, even if the outward expression seems unmoved. I am confident of this.

I recall one “nothing-special” day when I encountered thick glass. But because of my belief that my son Jon knows I love him, that opportunity challenged me once again to reach through the glass, however thick. Love is an unconditional expression, a gift given without expectation of any “thank you” note in return. On this “nothing-special,” priceless day, I peered into his eyes and said over and over: “I LOVE YOU! I love you, Jon. I love you inside and out. I LOVE everything about you. I cherish you. I LOVE YOU, LOVE YOU, LOVE YOU!!!” Out of the clear-blue sky, Jon whispered back to me, “Mommy, I love you.” I almost fainted. In that brief moment of time, the thick glass shattered.

I often wonder if God experiences my thick glass. My expressions to Him may appear vacant and I show no outer appearance of communing with Him, yet He persistently reaches out, showering me with His unconditional love, His cherishing of my soul. God doesn’t see thick glass; He only sees a child He loves. Can you hear His words of love? Can you hear Him calling your name?
“(your name), I love you. I LOVE YOU ________! I love you ________!
________, you are my treasure!
I LOVE YOU ________, inside and out!
I LOVE everything about you ________!
I cherish you ________!
I LOVE YOU, LOVE YOU, LOVE YOU ________!!!

His grace is amazing, how sweet the sound. He LOVES YOU!


About the author:  Colleen Swindoll Thompson



Colleen Swindoll Thompson