speak up & ensure justice

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves;
ensure justice for those being crushed. Prov. 31:8 (NLT)

I remember exactly where I was standing on the playground at my elementary school the first time I heard someone make fun of a person with disabilities. I remember who it was, what they said, how they acted, and how it made me feel. I had a choice in that moment to stand up for my sister and others like her or ignore it.

I had that choice each time someone used the r word or made a joke about the short bus. And that went on for years:

When friends in high school would laugh as Syble's special-needs class came down the hall
When a friend in college used the r word speaking to a youth group
When I was a teacher and my students would use it
When I was out to dinner with friends and one of them complained that the special ed kids at the school where she taught got too much of the budget and would never be able to do anything anyway

Every time I had a choice to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves or let it go. And honestly, at times it felt exhausting. Like I was always on a mission. Part of that drive was my personality, but my personality was shaped by being Syble's little (but taller and louder) sister.

<<First Name>>, there are times all our typical children will face the same decisions I did. And they may choose to stand up for their sibling or let it slide.

At different ages and stages they may respond differently to taunts and teasing, but we can pray for them to have boldness when it really matters.
Like when there's a real threat to their sibling's safety, someone's words are laced with malice, or when a system is unjust and they work toward a better solution that respects their sibling's dignity. This is my prayer for David as he grows and matures. This is still my prayer for myself as I make decisions for Syble's future. It's a privilege and an honor to be her voice at times.

Join me in prayer: God, because we live in a fallen world, we know people will not always be kind to our kids. But you raise up protectors who speak up for others and ensure justice. We pray today that our typical children will develop these characteristics. We know it's hard to be different, especially during the teen years when no one wants to stand out. But we pray for strength and for boldness when it really matters. We ask you to empower _______ to do the right thing. In Jesus's name we pray, amen.

With Your Child:
The stage when this might be the biggest challenge for your typical child is when they leave home for the first time. Suddenly no one knows they have a sibling with a disability. They can blend in a little more. They may choose not to laugh at a joke instead of really taking a stand. Be patient with your young adult as he/she adjusts. If they share an example with you of a time they didn't speak up, show grace and understanding. Don't heap on shame. And keep praying as we prayed today!

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