Respect for an Inherent Dignity

At a Lutheran Book Club discussion of "Journey With Jeff," one of the members experienced an "aHa Moment." She wrote, "Your book has made me more accepting of everyone just as God made them!" A new respect for the inborn dignity of all God's children was born! What an accomplishment, AND what a blessing this will be for everyone! She also said she "liked my format and found it easy to read -- each chapter a lesson in itself." She thanked me for putting my feelings "out there where hopefully we can all learn from them."~~~The presiding pastor added, "The discussion went really well. We talked about the style of writing, which we appreciated, especially the letters to God. We could picture Jeff, his struggles, the seizures and surprises, and talked at length about the time period that Jeff was alive. It was a great conversation that flowed well, and I encouraged everyone to send you an e-mail, or a letter, or to friend you on Face Book."~~~YES!~~~What a joy to know that eight Lutheran Book Club members joined together to read and discuss the story of our joys and challenges, and how God has blessed us and so many people through Jeff!

One Special Friend's Tribute To Another

 

Brian's tribute to his special friend: "When I was young, I had a special friend that I saw almost every Sunday in church. My friend was special in many ways and helped me learn many things that a little boy might only learn from having such a friend. I can't remember when we first met, but I do remember that he was such a regular part of our worship that I could not recall attending church without him being there and missed him when I no longer saw him. He sang the songs, loudly, and just a little bit longer than everyone else. He prayed loudly, and added his 'A-Men' just a little later than everyone else. He was not shy and he was not embarrassed, he was proud to sing and worship and perhaps he made the entire congregation feel loud and proud as well, because that church could sing!~~~We would usually meet after the service and I remember at first feeling awkward when he hugged me, as a young boy sometimes does, but eventually I learned what an amazing greeting and gift these hugs were. His Mom would help him explain his latest accomplishments and helped me understand some of the challenges my friend faced~~~Of course, the friend that I am remembering so fondly is Jeffrey Reisch and what I remember so clearly was how much he loved people and the church. I can't recall most interactions with Jeff, it was about 30 years ago, but I can convey how much of an impact he made on my life. He was so enthusiastic with everything that he did, he was so very proud of his accomplishments, and he genuinely cared for other people.~~~Facing a physical challenge when I was young, I could look to Jeffrey as an example of how to be brave in difficult times and to keep my chin up. Jeffrey's positive outlook and cheerfulness were an inspiration to me as I faced experimental treatments and finally spinal fusion surgery for scoliosis as an 11 year old boy.~~~Although Jeffrey was a part of my early life, his entire story eluded me until I saw that Mrs. Reisch had written "Journey With Jeff."Although I am not a parent of a special needs child, I was compelled to set aside all other reading material to read Jeff's story. The book not only enlightened me to all of the joy and difficulties the Reisch family faced, but gave me inspiration as a parent of two young children. Mrs. Reisch's amazing perspective and faith are an inspiration to parents struggling with raising children and facing any sort of adversity.~~~Jeff truly was an amazing individual and anyone that met him was truly blessed by his spirit. Reading the book brought back memories of the wonderful spirit that Jeff had, and reminded me how lucky I am to have known him. Someday, I hope to be welcomed into the kingdom of heaven where my friend Jeff will greet me with one of his great big hugs!" Me, too, Brian!!! I can hear Jeff now, saying, "Brian's my friend, Mom!!"