A disabled man with a shriveled leg, Loaded down with a grocery bag Somehow manages his own wheelchair I quickly turn away, it’s impolite to stare.
A woman approaches, pushed from behind Distorted, deformed, bitter, unkind I resist the temptation to gaze at the chair Instead, turn away, it’s impolite to stare.
Sure I care, but what can I do? I’ve got my own problems and I’m busy, too! So when I see an approaching chair I turn away, it’s impolite to stare.
I turn away but I have no peace What is this feeling that gnaws at me This attitude of mine, could it be sin? I turn away but I struggle within.
How would I feel if heads turned away As I approached they’d have nothing to say What if my life were ordained as such Even with God’s grace, could I handle as much?
It’s lonely enough for the average Joes But think how it must be for those Who, anywhere their wheelchair goes Perceives the populace look down its nose.
Attitudes like these are very real The lack of love just makes them feel They’re in the way and they’re unwanted But will this leave their souls undaunted?
So I said to myself, “Next time, wheelchair! I’ll not turn away, nor will I stare I’ll avoid the extremities, broken and maimed And will search out the eyes that have seen so much pain.
“I’ll offer a smile to that one sitting there To show my acceptance of her and her chair I will not rush through the moment so brief Perhaps I’ll even say ‘Hi!’ when we meet.
“But I know for certain I won’t turn away The encounter might even season the day.”
And so I did it…I smiled at the face And she smiled back! Now THAT is God’s grace.
- For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:13-14
- SONG: THE PARALYTIC – Music by Kathleen
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[This life is temporary. This life is short. When this life is over, our bodies will die and become empty shells, but our souls will continue to live forever. Where will the “real you” live? Will you live for all eternity separated from God? Or will you spend eternity in the presence of God in heaven? Learn more so you can make your most important decision: http://www.godlife.com/gospel/ and http://www.godlife.com/en/about-christianity
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Love this Kathleen! We tend to avoid that which we feel uncomfortable with….putting ourselves in their shoes will challenge us to reach out and be challenged to be ‘His Arms Extended”….
“His Arms Extended” – I love that! Thank you Dixie!
This was such a charming read. Love it! I agree. Smiling is always great!
Thank you, Yelena! Wonderful hearing from you!
Keep in touch!💕
Beautiful; something that speaks to us in a special place. Thanks for writing and sharing.