Instead of fighting the system, she signed me up for piano lessons, along with my younger sister, Sherry, who also had low vision. She’d heard enough “can’t” messages. What about the things we could do?

Whatever my parents’ original dream was for us, the only disappointment we heard was how hard it was for them to watch us struggle. While they were protective and realistic, they chose to focus on our strengths, encouraging us to participate in activities and excel in school, constantly reminding us that God had a unique purpose for our lives. I have grown to thank God for my low vision, knowing it allowed Him to take me far beyond anyone’s expectations.

As parents await the birth of a child, how many plan with disabilities in mind? We hope for athletes, musicians, and honor students. How crushing it must be when those plans are flattened with news of a physical or mental limitation.

Surely the mother of the blind man Jesus healed anxiously awaited a strong son who would do great things and care for her in her old age. Instead the man’s blindness provoked questions about who sinned. Jesus’ response reveals that God had a dream for this man too—to display His glory through him.

Parents like mine model the benefits of laying disappointments at the Creator’s feet, then asking Him to display His power and reveal His plan.