Get Off Your Knees - Inspirational Video

I have been thinking about this video for the past two days. One of my college friends shared it with me on Facebook, saying he thought of us when he came across it. What he may not of known is what a chord it would strike within both Ryan and I! So, thank you D & K - you know who you are!

The way that John talks about himself and why he is the way he is - is one of the things that has stuck with me. We spent so much time and effort trying to 'classify' Isaac's diagnosis. While it is very important to know if his condition is genetic (which it isn't), so we'll know about risks for any future children, and for Isaac's children, it isn't entirely important to know why otherwise. Perhaps for research, or prevention in the future - sure, but the way John puts it in the video nails it. For Isaac, it does not matter why or how he became the way he is. He will never race the 100m dash in a track meet, but that doesn't matter. What matters is Isaac's attitude and outlook on life, the way he is. Which, I would have to say, he is figuring out how to cope and how to succeed. It seems that every time a doctor tells us he won't be able to do something, he shows us he will progress at his own speed, and succeed at whatever he puts his mind to.

The other aspect of the video that really hit home for me is when John's dad talks about how he and his wife processed the news. And the gamut of feelings and emotions that they went through. I've never felt that validated in my feelings. There are times that I have a brief moment where I am mournful over things. For instance, the other night I was holding Isaac up so he was at Eli's level, standing so they could hug each other good night. Until Isaac has more strength, I'll never get to see them run up to each other and give hugs. I took my brief moment, but was brought right back to where my mind usually chooses to reside - if Isaac can deal with this on a daily basis, then surely I can too.

The video is a bit on the long side, but if you have the time to watch at least some of it -- I truly think you'll come away inspired!

Kristi

Watch Get Off Your Knees on PBS. See more from WMHT Specials.