Let God Lead 09/20/2011
 
Add Comment
 
 
By Vicky Brodale, Western Iowa Synod Disability Resource Team

I have worked as an AEA speech and language pathologist in the schools for a number of years, with students who have a wide range of special needs. During that time, I have tried to convince students that they need to be advocates for themselves and their needs -- whether those needs are physical, academic, or emotional. However, that can be tough to do because many of us have assumed it is not acceptable to say what we need, especially if we think that it will make life more complicated for someone else.

I discovered how incredible it can be to have someone listen and then act upon an expressed need. Since my diagnosis with multiple sclerosis, I have found that others often appreciate it when I tell them what I need (although I still find it difficult to do!). For many years, the church choir at Bethlehem, Cherokee, sang from the loft. The handrails on the steps to the loft are constructed of beautiful oak 2X6 boards. Wonderful to look at but worthless as a functional handrail.

I made a comment to that effect to Dick who also sang in the choir, and within two weeks, new three-inch round oak handrails were installed on the inner surface of the large 2X6 handrails! What a simple solution to a problem. Other choir members also commented on how wonderful it was to have functional handrails to grasp as they went up and down the steep stairs. That experience taught me the value of expressing my needs, and it also showed me how important it is to have someone who is listening. Look around your church -- are there changes that could be made to make participation easier for someone?

Add Comment
 
 
by Susan Keen, Ullensvang Lutheran, Thor, and member of WIS Disability Resource Team

     I used to ask God, “Why me, why do I have to be in this wheelchair?” Now I realize that God has a special plan for me and being in this wheelchair is a big part of it. I think for one thing God is using me to make other people aware of people with disabilities.

     For example, I would take a pie or casserole to my church, Ullensvang Lutheran Church in Thor, and I would have to hold the pie, open the big, heavy door, and run my electric wheelchair all at the same time. That takes three hands!

     This was not an easy task. Sometimes I would just wait until someone saw me, or someone would come along to help me open the door. I was not the only one needing this new electric door. Some of our other members walk with canes, are on crutches, etc.

     Now with the help of a disability fund at our church, and some very generous donations, we have an electric door at the back of our church. It is wonderful.

     I like to think I played a small part in the decision to install the doors at this time, even though many people needed and use it, and we all are very thankful that it is now in place.

Add Comment
 
 
Add Comment
 
 
Add Comment