John has been 6 years old for 52 years

For a half century, Priscilla’s mother took care of John. John has been six years old for the past 52 years. He can bathe with supervision – “Wash your arms. Wash under your arms. Rinse the soap off.” He can brush his teeth; he uses an electric razor, but must be inspected after shaving.

About five years ago, John went into a group home. Three other men are in the home; two are more physically limited than is John. Until then, John’s mother had done almost everything for John – opening doors, carrying things, wiping him after bathroom visits. Many things John could do, his mother did so much until she decided he was not capable.

I often heard my wife say, “John, open the door” when we were shopping. John’s response was always the same: “It’s too heavy.” My wife would say, “John, take the handle and open the door.” John always replied, “It’s too heavy.”

My wife believes in practical application. She would put John’s hand on the door handle and say, “John, open the door.” Eventually, John learned he could open doors and even hold open a door for his mother.

Mrs. R. died on May 30. John sometimes stays with my wife and me, for holidays and such.

Right now, John is in the shower. And I hear my wife – “Rinse off, John. Rinse soap off your legs. That’s the way.”

In Heaven there must be a special place for mothers and sisters and fathers (and often, even the hired help) who care for the Johns of the world.