This was sent to me by my stepfather. The words are beautiful, the meaning significant.  This put me in a thoughtful place.     CELTIC BLESSING  (author unknown - translated  by Charles Mitchell)   **********  "I wish you not a  path devoid of clouds, Nor a life on a bed of  roses, not that you might never need regret, nor that you should never feel pain. No, that is not my wish for you. My  wish for you is: That you might be brave in  times of trial, when others lay crosses upon  your shoulders. When mountains must be climbed, and chasms are to be crossed. When  hope can scarce shine through. That your gift  God gave you Might grow along with you and let you give the gift of joy to all who care for you. That  you may always have a friend who is worth that  name. Whom you can trust, and who helps you in times of sadness. Who  will defy the storms of daily life at your  side. One more wish I have for you that in every hour of joy and pain you may feel God close to you...
These stories describe our journey with Ben, our oldest son. Ben is a sweet and energetic redhead, born with POLR2A, a rare genetic change. My husband, Ryan, and I try to keep up with Ben and his two younger brothers. I intend to shed insight into raising a child with disabilities and pass on the wisdom we’ve earned over the past two decades.