I started my blog because I did a lot of writing in journals and rarely shared what I wrote with anyone. I would often tell the stories out loud (which I prefer) but seldom in print. I've also talked for years about writing a book but so far that's all talk too. I thought maybe writing a blog would be a good baby step to writing a book. Or at least it would satisfy the part of me that wants to share my writing with others. Turns out, I've enjoyed the feedback from those who have read my blog and I may just write that book. Stay tuned. (But don't hold your breath. Blogging is waaaaay easier.)
I'm getting ahead of myself again! I need to go back to the beginning and tell you a very important story about the experience that sparked a lifelong pondering about truth, love, pain, joy, family, grief, and disability. Here now is the story of the origin of the phrase and title of my blog: Act Normal.
The first time it happened I couldn't even laugh. I wasn't sure I'd heard him correctly. We were taking one of our, almost daily, walks to Grandma Thiesen's house talking loudly, laughing, and making big dramatic gestures when suddenly Nathan looked ahead and saw that we were going to cross paths with some strangers. Immediately he straightened up and started to walk faster. As he past my mom and me he waved his had behind him as though we should follow his lead. Then he whispered loudly of the side of his mouth, "ACT NORMAL!". My mom and I gave each other puzzled looks, straightened up, and silently followed the "normal" one in the group the rest of the way to grandma's.
It was mind blowing on so many levels to hear Nathan tell us to act normal. First of all telling us to act normal implies that we are not normal so our best option is to try our best to pretend that we are normal. He knows us so well. He actually sees us and understands so much more than my low expectations allow. It's true, we aren't normal.
Second of all, coming from Nathan-who rarely does anything that I consider normal-it implies that he thinks he is the example of normal to us. But if it's a toss up between Nathan and me, I'd vote for myself every time. Yep. I said it and I'll say it again. He's weird and does weird stuff because he doesn't have this cursed inhibition that I have.
Thirdly, is that a tone of EMBARRASSMENT I heard? REALLY?? I embarrass you?! Are you kidding me? Oh come now, let's talk about how this is inconceivable! How could I possibly make you feel anything but pure joy and pride and, dare I say, gratitude for the privilege of having me for your sister? I just don't see it any other way.
It's one of the many gifts of God that He has given me over and over again in the form of Nathan.
Perspective.
Perspective.
So that's why I started this blog, to pass on the gift to you. :)
