I am blessed.

Today, one of my Facebook friends posted about how she sees people saying "Praise the Lord" and "what a blessing" when a pregnant mom finds out her baby does not have Down syndrome.  I'll admit that 3 years ago, I probably would have said the same thing.

But if you really think about it, do you think that it pleases God more when a baby is born without Down syndrome?  Is there more rejoicing in Heaven over a child with 46 chromosomes than one with 47?

Is a blessing the absence of any trials?

Or is it God's provision and grace through those trials?

Is a blessing getting what you want or even exactly what you prayed for?

Or is it getting what God sees as best for your life?

I have a child who many have prayed that they would never get.  They may say they are blessed.

But maybe I'm the one is truly blessed.

Doesn't the nature of the word blessing indicate above and beyond the usual?

It is favor that is bestowed upon the recipient. 

Think of people who received a true blessing:
Abraham- Father of a nation
Jacob- received the birth-right. 
Jesus- the Savior of the World, who God said, [He] is well pleased..." with him.

Upon them, was bestowed circumstances, responsibilities, and opportunities above and beyond the usual.  They were blessed.

Through Kamdyn's life, we have learned about compassion, acceptance, faith, and love in ways that many people do not get to experience.  We were given the "above and beyond".

The blessing.

Not just that, though.  We get Kamdyn too.

I say, we are double blessed.