Parker's Poem

In honor of Autism Awareness Month, here is a devotional from my book about my son, Parker's Story: Essays on Autism and Awesometism.

PARKER’S POEM

KEY VERSE:

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

ESSAY:

            I wrote a poem this morning about my son. He was born with cerebral palsy, up to 50% brain malformation, a brain cyst, and developmental delay. At age 3 he was also diagnosed with autism. He faces a lot of difficulties. I wanted this poem to challenge people, including myself, who complain about how tough life is. My son doesn’t complain. He just overcomes. This is definitely a Philippians 4:13 inspired poem.

Parker’s Poem

When you think it can’t be done,

Just remember my son.

Born with half a brain.

A life destined for pain.

They said he might not walk.

And possibly not talk.

We wondered would he crawl?

Or ever throw a ball?

But lots of people prayed.

Daily progress he has made.

And now at age of six,

He runs and throws and kicks.

Don’t tell me you can’t do it.

That there’s too much to go through it.

You haven’t met my son.

He’s proof it can be done.

            I got excited when I finished this poem. I like this poem. I think it is inspiring. I think my son is inspiring.

APPLICATION:

            Who inspires you? Do your children or grandchildren inspire you? We all have the potential to inspire one another to greatness. Philippians 4:13 says we can do all things, even inspire others, through Christ. Maybe more important than asking the question who inspires you is asking who would you like to inspire? Pray for someone who needs your godly inspiration today and then go out of your way to do something special for them.