Down's syndrome.
What just went through your mind? How did you react? When I was younger I reacted in various ways, none of them good, and none that would make me proud today. Children with Down's are made fun of, adults with it can have a tough time as well.
The change for me came when I was in the military and had an opportunity to go to a Special Olympics activity in Spokane, Washington. I watched track for a bit, then went to the weight lifting competition. I was taken by the attitudes of these young competitors. At the finish line on the track, before the adults could rush in and congratulate the winners, their fellow competitors were all over them with hugs and praise. The same response was evident during the weight lifting as all the competitors cheered each other on. When do you see a weight lifter cheering their competition to beat the pants off of them?
As competitors we can learn volumes from these "special" people. I wonder if we might also learn something about living life.
This has been my experience with Down's syndrome. I have found them to be curious, happy, and personable. I'm sure there are challenges, there are with all those with special needs. I'm not so sure I would be up for it.
I challenge you, though, the next time you have the opportunity, to engage a Down's child or adult, to take a moment and say hello. I think you will come away richer for the effort.
As for me, I have grown up since my younger days. These are certainly God's special children, and I wish them the best.
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