Simple gifts

Yesterday, I visited Yuen Loong, a dear 'special friend', after a long absence on my part. The last time I saw him was in early May. This tells me that I have been ashamedly busy about many things - that seem worthwhile in my eyes and perhaps to those around me, but .......

I made up my mind that this week, having a couple of days when my schedule is flexible, I would visit. Yesterday, after a morning of sharing with a spiritual friend, I had some lunch and then went over in the early afternoon. Yuen Loong was not at home - being at his weekly outing (for lunch, social interaction and games) to New Hope Ministry. I spent some time with his mother, Mrs Lai, chatting as best I could in broken Cantonese, admiring the plants in her garden, watching her pluck a few custard apples from her tree, and some mini strawberries from her garden for me.

When Yuen Loong came back (he is given a ride by one of the volunteers), he grinned from ear to ear to see me and actually took my hand, as I escorted him in from the gate. Then, seated next to me, the big smile continued and I just had to take a picture! Actually I was wondering if he would remember me after so long, and was prepared for his 'sulking'. So the big grin and handshake were a real gift. Now I understand the joy of those who work with this group of people, week after week and am glad that my husband has been helping in the New Hope Ministry for several years.

I have wondered about people like Yuen Loong. I wondered how it could be that they can respond to the heart of other persons or even to God. They have such limited ways of communicating. But then I do realize that, being made in the image of God is true for each and every person, even those with severe limitations. They are not animals. They possess the stamp of God's image, and a soul, even if they are limited by handicaps that prevent normal mental function. Deep inside is a person God loves and treasures, and only He would be able to communicate with them fully. Our God is a God of mystery, for we will never understand why we have such vulnerable persons among us. But at the same time, our God of love has offered us many gifts through his simple ones, if we have eyes to see and hands that are open to receive them.