Thursday, November 04, 2010

Happy 12th Birthday Jack!



As I sit at my computer poised to share my thoughts on this, Jack’s 12th birthday, the word that most predominately comes to my mind is “AWE”.  I’m in awe that it’s been twelve years since this journey began.  I’m in awe of all that has transpired over the last twelve years.  I’m in awe that Jack and I are both still here to talk about it.  Mostly, I’m in awe of the love of life that Jack exudes every day despite all that has been stolen from him by the insidious disease that has riddled his body.  This child who cannot purposefully move any part of his body, save a few fingers; who cannot sustain his breathing without the assistance of a machine; who has never enjoyed the experience of eating food; and who has never spoken the words his mind so clearly holds - this child wakes up every morning with a smile on his face and eyes that sparkle with the anticipation of a new day.  I am in awe of this child. 

My greatest wish for Jack this birthday is that more of the people who cross his path would acknowledge his presence and take a moment to appreciate what he has to say.  Jack may not speak with words, but his face and eyes speak volumes.  If you’d just stop and speak to him and then look (really look) into those eyes, I promise that you will get a response that will assuredly warm your heart and put a smile on your face.  There is a person inside that silent body who has a profound awareness of all that surrounds him.  Take the risk to get to know Jack.  He is so worth it.

Happy Birthday Jack.  We love you to the moon and back.

10 comments:

worthy said...

Already posted on fb but just wanted to add another "Happy 12th Birthday Jack!"

Alicia said...

Happy Birthday, Jack!

I am in awe of Jack too. He is one of my greatest heroes. If he can wake up everyday with joyous anticipation and a smile, I should be able to as well.

If I am lucky enough to meet him someday, I will probably start talking to him like he is an old friend. And he will probably be thinking "who is this crazy lady who talks to me like she's known me for years???" :-)

betty d said...

Very Happy Birthday to Jack, he is such a joy to you and his family. I wish I was as articulate as you, since you captured so much of what I would say about Will. It was quite moving to read.

I hope to someday meet him, and maybe we will in the Spring since we are flying to Phoenix for a Grand Canyon trip (w/o Will).

Have a great day Jack!

CS said...

Happy Happy Birthday Jack!! I hope your day is filled with wonder and your mom gets a Stella. -Caty

Anonymous said...

Happy Birthday, Jack!!! Have a great day!
Love,
Kristy

Anonymous said...

Happy birthday Jack. We are in awe of you -- and your Mom.

Susan said...

So well said Ann! I am in awe of Jack too. Happy Birthday Buddy! You are a hero! And Ann that is really something to think about isn't it?! We can all be happy if the Jack's and Ainsley's of the world can.

Christy said...

Oh, I'm a day late. Nothing new, except I'm usually a dollar short, too.

Happy Birthday, Jack! I hope I can meet you one day, too. You and your mom are people I hold dear to my heart. I am lucky to "know" you!!! I hope you had a great day!

Dana said...

happy Birthday Jack!

Tatia Strang said...

Happy belated birthday, Jack. You and your Mom are amazing people!