Raising Mama

To Sarah, being a barren woman was an insignificant, lonely fate. But, as she drove home from her husband's funeral, she discovered what hopeless was all about. Just days later, the news of her pregnancy changed her life in ways she could never have imagined. Not only was the baby a blessing because it was a long awaited surprise, but also because her new daughter, Naomi, had Down syndrome. Sarah considered raising a Down syndrome child as a reward and an honor. Naomi would have the privilege of staying innocent, silly and dependent on Sarah forever. She soon found out, however, that others viewed Naomi as disabled and even insignificant. She became determined to shield Naomi from the worlds' undesirable reactions. But no amount of protection could prevent Naomi from being brutally attacked on her way home from school. The flood of consequences from that single act of violence seemed to be swallowing them both. Her child-like attitude and God-given innocence was shattered. One outcome, though, was welcomed and cherished- Naomi's daughter, Ruth. As Sarah grew older, it was up to Ruth to care for and protect Naomi. Although poverty and betrayal seemed to weigh them down with each step, Naomi and Ruth held tightly to each other. Ruth had plenty to discover about letting go of past hurt and bitterness. Even through the deepest pits, Naomi remained the constant, unwavering rock. Child-like faith and forgiveness were just a couple of Naomi's precious gifts from God. Finally, a handicapped hero!