By author Shari McMinn

One of the strongest pro-life examples I witness in our society these days is when I see a loving, dutiful parent out-and-about in public with a child who is severely physically and/or mentally disabled. I have encountered such amazing families in the grocery store, the doctor’s office, the zoo, and even at the Rocky Mountain Homeschool Conference. Praise the Lord! As I silently pray for them, I observe the selfless love the parent expresses toward their child. The child might be difficult to manage, but seems to understand the grace shown to him or her. In the town where I used to live, I would often see a mom who had an adult son that was a “flapper” and a “shouter.” She would lovingly escort him through the grocery aisles, carefully guiding him as she made her selections. One time, I introduced myself to her and extended a warm greeting. She looked relieved, like someone actually noticed them, appreciated her, and recognized that her son’s life had value. I later learned her husband was abusive and left them, not being able to cope with their situation. Yet, she trusts the Lord has a plan for her and her son.