You Never Know Whose Hand Will Pull You Into Heaven

Sitting in the lobby at the Chicago Hyatt Regency trying to get some work done before we hit the road back to Buffalo, Scotty is sitting next to me saying hello to each person he can.  There is an older gentleman inches from Scotty’s chair.  Scotty is trying to get his attention and says “HI” and grabs for his arm.  I say:”Remember no touching just waving”.  

This man took Scotty’s hand and held it so gently and says. 

“It is OK, he is fine”.  We continue an incredible conversation about so many things that have been weighing on my heart and mind for so many years.

 This man was with his wife and another couple.  The one woman was a teacher for 35 years, now retired.  This gentleman and his wife spoke of their 3 sons, one happens to be named Scotty.  But their Scotty is 48 years old.  Their youngest son is 38 and has learning disabilities.  Their youngest son lives with their Scotty and works for him in their restaurant.  The fear of who is taking care of my Scotty when I am gone flooded me and a new hope had arisen because of this brief encounter with these people.

We spoke of a mother’s and daddy’s heart and how it is broken often and easily by a cruel educational system and world.  Smiles were shared through our tears.

Throughout this entire time, Scotty and this gentleman were having their own nonverbal conversation.  Holding hands, Scotty was caressing this man’s bald head..and pulled this man closer to his face..forehead to forehead..as Scotty has done to me so many times.  There was a moment of complete silence.  All of us just watching.

This man not once pulled away from scotty’s hand.  These were his words to me:  YOU NEVER KNOW WHOSE HAND IS GOING TO PULL YOU INTO HEAVEN”.  Your son’s hand is reminding me of that.  Too many people walk right on by this beautiful blessing.  This Scotty is going to pull many people into Heaven.”

I could not hold back the tears.  Our time together ended, and this man stood up and gave me the most loving hug a father would give a daughter.  I am forever

 changed because of this brief moment.