As a transfer student, there have been many ups and downs to getting used to a new university. Through all of the adjustments, I have had to rely on Jesus Christ as I learn how to navigate BYU.
One of the greatest parts about being a BYU Cougar is that the environment allows me to learn more about the Savior and I learn more about how to be an effective educator. During my first semester in the McKay School, I spent quite some time learning about what the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the scriptures have to say about disabilities and how we as educators can help them. I want to share 3 truths that I've learned with you.
"...some of the sweetest spirits are housed in frail frames..." (President Russell M. Nelson)
1. Disabilities are blessings, not punishments.
When you or someone you love has a disability, it is easy to ask "why me?" I know I felt that same way when my little sister found out about her learning disabilities as well as emotional disorders. However, time has taught my family and I that we can learn and grow rather than view these challenges as punishments or lack of care. Disabilities are blessings in disguise and they are from God.
"And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him." (John 9:1-3)
2. Everyone is a child of God.
Regardless of disability, race, gender, religion, etc, everyone is a child of God. Inside of every body is a spirit and that spirit is just as strong in the bodies of those who are physically and/or intellectually disabled. As a special educator, I have the privilege to help each child know that they are loved and they are special!
"But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart. (1 Samuel 16:7)
3. Christ would be with them too.
When Christ was on the Earth, He spent his time among those who were sick and afflicted. He spent time with the weak and the mourning, the rejected and the outcasts. I have learned that Christ would be with those who face disabilities too if He was on the Earth as this time. He wants us to do the same.
"Have ye any that are sick among you? Bring them hither. Have ye any that are lame, or blind, or halt, or maimed, or leprous, or that are withered, or that are deaf, or that are afflicted in any manner? Bring them hither and I will heal them, for I have compassion upon you; my bowels are filled with mercy." (3 Nephi 17:7)
Want to learn more about how you can bless children of God as a special educator? Join me! Find more information here or watch videos from the Church here.
Comment below with your thoughts on how religion and disabilities tie together!
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