“God’s Spirit gives us power, love, and self-discipline." ~ 2 Timothy 1:7
They met in second grade. He already
had the beginnings of an athletic build which gave Matt his first experience of
being a popular kid in school. Melanie was beautiful and special to everyone
around her. Bullies stared at her, called her names, and treated her with suspicion.
Matt also noticed that Melanie
was often alone on the playground. So, he made a point of talking to her and
pulling Melanie into whatever activity they were doing. They became fast
friends and he constantly watched out for his classmate with Down’s Syndrome.
As the two buddies watched Matt’s
older brother ready himself for the school prom, Matt (now an affectionate 4th
grader), promised Melanie that he’d take her to prom when they got to high
school. Neither parent learned about their children’s special relationship
until the year was practically over.
Unfortunately, the two friends ended up at different schools by the time they reached sixth grade. They completely lost touch. Matt became the star quarterback on his high school football team and Melanie became the equipment manager for her high school football team. They reconnected for the first time in years when their respective teams played against one another.
With several balloons that featured "Prom ?" written on them, Matt presented his friend with the gift and asked her to be his date.
Time stood still, breath held, until her soulful reply. Melanie said “Yes!” without hesitation.
She looked gorgeous in her lavender gown as they posed for
pictures and later danced the night away. He’d grown into a man with a big
heart, a deep sense of putting others first, and most of all making people feel
special and loved. For him it was no big deal, just doing what came naturally.
It wasn’t just about a handsome football quarterback or a beautiful
girl with Down syndrome, but a friendship that withstood the test of time and a
promise kept.
Both students continued their lives as usual after prom,
which meant going into their senior year of high school. Mary was elected
homecoming queen at Central Dauphin and continued as equipment manager for the
school's football team; Ben continued in his role as quarterback for the team
at Susquehanna.
Matt's loyalty to his friend destroys the picture of how
many might remember jocks from their own high school years. Melanie’s graceful
elegance on prom night accented a powerful rebuke to false and hurtful
stereotypes about those with intellectual disabilities.
God’s hand at work again.
Father, You are our Rock, Fortress, and
Savior in whom we find protection. You help those who’ve fallen, and You lift
those who have too much to carry. Thank You for being a refuge of safety for
those people who are being hurt by others. Amen
