Having an autistic child is not the end of the world--far from it. It is my hope that through this blog, at least a handful of people will get to understand that. My child is amazing, she brings us tremendous joy. We have good days & bad days, but we CHOOSE to focus on the good. Our belief is that by loving our daughter, giving her the most comfortable environment we can, and by most of all accepting her differences, she will continue to blossom--in her OWN way.

10/9/06

God's Will: The Church vs. Autism???

I was reading Kevin Leitch's blog where today he writes of DAN! doc, Jeff Bradstreet and his endorsement of exorcism. DAN!, it has been discovered by Mr. Leitch, has many interesting connections to some religious groups involved in cure autism campaigns. Dr. Bradstreet (cringe that I do have to refer to him as a doctor...) has even been known to promote exorcism as a reasonable way to cure autism.

I will not link the next two groups, in the comments section of Mr. Leitch's blog, you can find the links if you choose to check them out. The groups are "Glory Of Zion" and "Children of Destiny," on both websites are links to more sites. It appears it is one group of people fronting for several churches & charity groups. They strongly promote finding a cure for autism, blaming mercury, and encouraging the use of biomedical crap and a slew of other quack cures. I just checked out both sites and became very queasy.

I find it interesting that these people quote the bible in an attempt to further their profits & promote DAN!, HBOT, et al. They make statements that would lead one, namely a vulnerable parent, feel they are failing not only their child, but God as well, if they don't try to cure the child of Autism. As if it is God's will...they apparently are experts on God's will.

Here are some bible passages that would seem more helpful to parents, especially when first receiving the diagnosis of Autism:

James 1:12
God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crowns of life that God has promised to those who love him.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

John 9:2-3

..."Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life."

I suggest these people refer to the story of Job. A man who lost everything & yet still praised God. He felt it was God's will & he ACCEPTED it. From Job 2:3-10 "But Job replied, 'You talk like a godless woman. Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?'"

While reading these websites, I am sick to death of people claiming to be doing God's work, ripping people off. My heart breaks for the children who have died at their hands, and at those who are being mistreated right now. Many are to blame, it is just especially sad when religious groups are the culprits.

I believe it is our duty to accept our children, offer them love & comfort. Have hope & faith--God is not demonizing your child. Accept the beautiful child you have been given & have trust in your God. I feel strongly that is God's will.

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