There is a young man I’ve known almost 11 yrs now. I have deep respect for James, his family and their privacy. He will be known as “James” (my middle name) for this article.

In 2009 I met James and his family. He was born with Down Syndrome (D.S.) My best estimate is that James is now a teenager.

It’s been a long time since seeing him and his family and I recently reconnected with his parents. I was able to see pictures of him they publicized from time to time. I was excitingly amazed at how he’d grown up.

When I would see recent photos or videos of James I noticed qualities in him, I would see that struck me. This post isn’t about the briefing I’ve done on D. S. nor my disappointment for anemic funding for research to help in the fight to minimize the syndrome.

This post isn’t about James having D.S. but what exudes from him despite it, and the indirect impact it’s had on me through glimpses of him interacting in his world.

While studies ascribe behavior and delayed intellect and development in those living with D. S. what I see in James could easily be missed by the “intelligence” of our day.

From what I can see, James is teachable. He doesn’t appear moody. He seems to be able to work with others, and doesn’t need to lead. He celebrates passionately because of accomplishment, not ego. He’s humble enough to be camera shy. He doesn’t appear to have many concerns or worries(as I have at times.)

James radiates to me what internal purity should reveal. I don’t see malice coming through his eyes, I do see willingness, compliance, humility, those attributes that can allude adults if we’re not careful.

When I look at James I don’t see someone who would to try to “hustle me” or sell me a “bill of goods” just for his bottom line.

What’s refreshing to see in this world is the expression of wonderment in a world of skepticism and trepidation.

No wonder Jesus said If you wanna see the kingdom you must be as a child.

Maybe that’s what I see in James.

I don’t live with James, and I don’t know if my impressions are accurate, but that’s the sense I get when I see his face.

Whether a smiling thumbs up, a still photo in the middle of a project. Whether running doing a sprint to doing his school work or engaging one of his favorite computer games. He’s not “stressin”.

Makes me ask myself, if James’ has “down” what’s “up” with me?

anablepsis.