Image In This

As part of my professional work, I have the opportunity to spend a significant amount of time with people that have cognitive disabilities. Contrary to what many people might believe, most people with cognitive disabilities are very spiritual.

One person recently asked me "When I go to Heaven, will I have my disability?". How should one answer that? Whew!

Here is the discussion that followed (paraphrased):

"God created all of us in His image. So, He created you and me, including all of our disabilities, in His image."

"But God is perfect. Since I have cerebral palsy and you need to wear eyeglasses, does that mean God has cerebral palsy and is near-sighted?"

"Not exactly. Remember, God created both man and woman. Does that mean God is a 'she-man'? God is everything. He took on human form in the Person of Jesus. So, He not only created us in His image, He joined us in our humanity. He knows and understands everything about us, including any physical disabilities."

"But some people are very bad people. If all of us are created in God's image, then God must be bad."

"No. Just like he did with Adam and Eve, He created us in His image. He also gave us free will. Adam and Eve were created pure. However, they decided to disobey God's command. That is the foundation of evil. It didn't come from God. It came from man."

"OK, I think I understand. But will I have my disability when I get to Heaven?"

"You will still be you - disabilities and all. However, your disabilities will not create any obstacles for you in Heaven like they do on earth. Disabilities are a natural part of the human existence. The problem is not with people with disabilities. The problem is with those of us on earth that refuse to help people with disabilities so that they can achieve what they want to achieve. When you get to Heaven, you will achieve the most precious goal. Since you will be joined with God, you will have no obstacles. You will have eternal happiness."

"I think I get it. I always thought that if I just had people around that could give me a bit of help, I could pretty accomplish most of what I want to accomplish. I always thought it would be Heaven on earth if such a situation existed for me and for other people with disabilities."