Today is my son’s birthday. I wrote a bunch of stuff and then deleted it because I’m not so sure he’d be pleased to see it out there on the net forever and ever. Our conversations are usually short (but sweet) and don’t often venture into the touchy feely category. So I’ll just say Happy Birthday, Ryan. I’m very proud of you and how hard are working to create the life you want, despite a few rocks (okay boulders) in your path and that really crappy hand in the genetics card game.
And because sometimes we all need to be reminded of how far much we’ve accomplished against the odds, I’d like to remind you of something you said a while ago when you wrote about how it felt to be hit with Muscular Dystrophy.
You said, "I was doing things I should not have been able to do simply because I did not know that I should not be able to do them."
I want you to remember your own words when life throws you another curve ball and you think you can’t do something. Because Ryan, let me tell you, you can do anything you set your mind to do. Really.
For those of you who read my blog, I wonder if you would help me wish Ryan a happy birthday and share a favorite story or quote or scripture about courage for him? Thank you.
Happy birthday, Ryan.
I understand about not wanting to get too personal about one’s children in your journal. I feel the same way about mine. But it’s obvious you love him 🙂
Happy Birthday Ryan!
“Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.”
-Mahatma Gandhi
Thanks for helping Ryan celebrate!
Happy Birthday Ryan!
“No matter how impossible everything can seem, never underestimate the power of a dream.”
Thanks for helping Ryan celebrate!
Some days all you have to do in order to be brave and strong and good is get up in the morning.
If you do any more than that on those days, you’re amazing.
Thanks Peni! I so agree!
My favorite quote:
“There is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”
– Winnie the Pooh
Wishing you a most happy birthday, Ryan.
Thanks for helping Ryan celebrate! Love this quote.
Happy Birthday!!
Happy Birthday Ryan!! I hope that you have a blessed day.
One scripture that always gives me courage is Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” To me this means that we do have hope and a future – just maybe not the same one we would have once thought about…
Recently Isaiah 43: 1 & 2 was brought to my attention too – – Fear not, for I have redeemed you;I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. “
I live with chronic pain everyday – and there have been times that I could not walk but only could crawl – so now that I can walk, I am so thankful for that – and I know you understand when I say that I live with the pain but won’t let the pain have control and keep from living and loving my life.
Know that this distant cousin sends her love to you on this most precious day – that our world was so blessed with your birth!
Re: Happy Birthday!!
I, too, first thought of Jeremiah 29:11.
I can’t understand your pain. I don’t feel it and I hopefully never will have to endure something like that.
But clearly, I was not made for such greatness as you, because from those to whom much is given, much is expected. In your case, you were given pain and a story about overcoming it and changing to be able to somehow live with it. And you are, in my opinion, doing what is expected: you are sharing your experience so that those who might be feeling isolated or scared in their pain might know they are not alone.
Happy (now belated) birthday to a young man I don’t know but admire nonetheless.
Re: Happy Birthday!!
Thanks, Diane. You made me tear up.
Re: Happy Birthday!!
Thank you, Mary Rose.
Thanks
Thank you all for the birthday wishes! 🙂
HAPPY BIRTHDAY RYAN
Your mum does not often talk or write about you but in some ways I wish she would. You are definitely an inspiration to those of us that “Life has thrown a curved ball” as your mum puts it. You are so lucky to have her encourage you.
When I was growing up in my family it was all about what I couldn’t do, never about what I could. So one day I just left and discovered a whole world that I never knew existed, because of my cerebral palsy I had to go to a special school, in some ways that shielded me from life’s cruel world but it did not help me grow. I finished my schooling at a “Normal” school whatever that may be and I went on to get married have 2 boys who are now teenagers and I am raising on my own. I have also had the same job for 25 years. I drive a car. I get around and don’t let anything stop me unless I want it too or it is physically impossible. I still have a lot more life to live and I am going to live each and every day the same way. Even if it be that some days are a challenge. I will get through them and I know you will to. So go for it live any dream you choose and I sincerely hope they all come true.
– Anne McKenna
Thanks Anne, for sharing of yourself and helping Ryan celebrate.
Happy birthday to Ryan!
“The first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit. The second is to look things in the face and know them for what they are.”
–Marcus Aurelius
Love this quote. Thanks for helping Ryan celebrate!
Belated happy birthday wishes, Ryan! I just had a chance to read your blog, and it moved me very much. I was in my 20s when I was diagnosed with lupus, and it broke my life in two. I did find my feet again in time, but it took me years to find the words to tell my story. So I deeply admire you for telling yours.
I wish you courage and peace and strength, and I hope this year has good things in store for you.
Thank you for sharing of yourself with Ryan and the rest of the world.
Happy early birthday to you, happy recent birthday to your son, and happy book birthday as well! WOO HOO! May the coming months be just as successful and happy as July has been for you all.
Thanks, Ally! The future’s so bright, bring on the shades.
🙂