Amy . . .

What would you like to know? I am fun, but crazy. I have a most perfect husband, and 2 cats named Samson and Delilah. We are presently working on adopting a little girl from China and have a separate blog for that. I am a Christian and am working on a better relationship with him. I live in the Atlanta area and love sharing stories with people. I am also a pediatric nurse and I love it! I love to talk and meet new people and I love Disney Cruising

Tuesday, July 08, 2008

labels

I am having a problem with labeling people, all kinds of people. Some of you may know that Michael and I added a medical checklist with the China program. We may get a child from the waiting child program, she may have whats considered special needs but she will not be a special needs child. She will be our wonderful, beautiful daughter and although her "special needs" may need to be treated, that will not be the focus of her childhood. I remember in nursing school not to call kids with Down Syndrome, a Down Syndrome child. They are children that have Down Syndrome. Am I making any sense?

People who are heavy are labeled fat This may be true. But there is more to the person besides being fat. Plus, that's just an ugly word.

Most importantly, I am a Christian. I am not sure I like this label anymore. I actually prefer terms like God follower. I really do not want this to come across as I am ashamed o f my faith, because I certainly am not. Christians are judged. They are stereotyped as judging others, as being perfect and I am not sure why . Is it because of what they hear in church or what?

Christians are afraid of admitting mistakes. Not all, this is just what I am seeing and experiencing Having an alcoholic beverage, watching R movies or saying a bad word are kept in secret. I am just trying to sort out my thoughts about all of this. I have a relationship with my wonderful creator. Because of that relationship, I am peace and I have joy. I hope that people see that . I know that I judge and I know that I am judged. Perhaps this is just being human, but lately I can understand why people hesitate to go to the church. I love my church, I would not trade it for the world but sometimes I wonder, is everyone welcome there.? I think I am thinking churches in general and not necessarily the one I attend now, but does everyone love unconditionally? We talked about this in small group a few months go. If a homeless person walked in with torn clothes and smelled, who would be the first to talk to him? Someone making sure he was not a threat or someone with a cup of coffee? Perhaps I am thinking way too much about this.

I want it to be about God and what He can show us and what He can do through us.

10 comments:

Susan said...

Amy, Amy, Amy,

I think you have spoken MUCH truth here today. I find that I judge myself based on some of the years that I've been indoctrinated in church...i.e.,having a drink. It was preached as so evil from pulpits that I sat under that I shunned it. I think I've become more balanced as I've aged. It doesn't, however, mean that I don't find myself falling back into those habits of judging, however.

I can't wait to hear the next part of your adoption journey. I know God has wonderful things planned for you, dear God-follower!

:-) Susan

Frazzled Farm Wife said...

Amy...what a good thought provoking post today! Lots to ponder.

Annie said...

I love how God changes peoples names throughout His word. His labels matter, while the other, not so much.

You've really written from your heart here. Thank you for sharing :)

Jose said...

I was taught to be the best I can be to the best of my abilities and like you I feel at peace. I think us as humand don't even scratch the surface when it comes to being good and kind to one another. But again that was God's design for us. I've been labeled in so many different ways that I lost count. I can't help that and I don't mind. But the day I label myself, I'll be doomed. I hope you find the anwers you seek.

Anonymous said...

I LOVE your attitude about your soon-to-be daughter! You've got to focus on HER and not her "special need"! I know you will truly be blessed with this little girl and that she will be doubly blessed with you and Michael. Hope you both have a wonderful day!

Gwen Oatsvall said...

wow ... love this post ... My Maggie was considered SN, but we consider her uniquely gifted w/ warrior like survivor skills and the hope in our family ...

I am going to add a section to my book about "The Wait" ... would you be interested in sharing your story as you wait and how you handle that .... i think it would be so encouraging to others and a great gift to share ... s.oatsvall@comcast.net

RamblingMother said...

I agree. I think Followers of the Way or Christ followers is a much better def.

Beverly

Mom2Three said...

I am not into labels, either, but I am into special needs kids from China. Mary Pearl is our bilateral cleft lip/palate girl, and we are waiting for Jin Pei to come home with his underdeveloped left arm and missing three fingers!!!
Yee-haw!!!
He is GORGEOUS!!!!!!!!!!
:-)
The only special "need" these kids have is that they NEED a family!!!
:-)
I would love to hear more about your thoughts and if you have any questions, do not hesitate to email me!
carawen @ centurytel.net
(remove the spaces)
Cynthia
Mom to 3 from China
underthemistymountain.blogspot.com

Ice Cream said...

This is a serious thought that all true Christians ask at some point or another. For myself, I've found the answer to be an individual one. I can make a difference, but I have to do it openly, and that can be hard sometimes. But the more individuals that openly set good examples of Christ-like love, the more others will follow suit. Most people are just waiting for someone else to set the precedent.

Football and Fried Rice said...

amy,

wow - what a great post of truth. I was just talking to a friend tonight who once heard a sermon about Judgement. The preacher was saying that we are to judge each other, as Christians (hold them accountable). Those who we aren't in any position to "judge" is non believers.