Joyful Acceptance

As many of you may know, I am a part owner in a film/video production company. We do a number of corporate projects throughout the year that keep us pretty busy. On occasion we produce a video project for a few human service agencies in our area. For the past three years now we have produce a promotional video for an agency that works with physically and mentally challenge persons.

As we spend the morning hours of today video taping at this agency, I found myself having a number of mixed emotions. It started off not so bad, as we began interviewing some of the clients who were able to somewhat communicate to us. But at one point during the day we moved into a portion of the facility where it was obvious those with more debilitating issues where being housed for the day. As I entered I began to have this really deep gnawing in my stomach. I literally felt sick. I was definitely out of my comfort zone here. While the handicapped persons here were being kept active by doing some artwork, crafts, coloring, puzzles, etc., it really seemed to me that they were just huddled here out of the way of society, so that people like me wouldn't be bothered. And honestly, I did not want to be there. Some of them were doing their own thing. Others appeared to be really enjoying the company of friends they had made. I must tell you I was totally depressed.

But, here is were the cool part comes. About this time, into the room enters Barbara. Our crew had noticed Barbara a little earlier in the day in the administrative offices of the facility. Barbara, an older mentally challenged woman, was touring the facility with her parents to determine if the program might be a good match for her. She entered the room noticed by only a few of those gathered there. For a short time,the staff member talked with Barbara and her parents about the activities taking place. Then it happened. The moment that made my day and one I will soon not forget. The staff member took the opportunity to introduce Barbara to everyone seated in the room. She simply stated that Barbara might begin attending the center. At that announcement, the room burst into applause. It was then that Barbara's face lit up with a grin from ear to ear. As she jumped up and down, I quite frankly was moved to tears for a brief moment. In the mist of a place that seemed joyless and uncomfortable to me, grace was happening.

That simple point in time helped me to remember that we all have a need to be accepted and loved, no matter who we are. It is our ability to be merciful to others that will bring them joy and Christ endless love brings for them hope.