Humanity has always included a sprinkling of those who have learning or communication disorders, or mental, physical or emotional impairment, said Elder Boyd K. Packer of the Council of the Twelve. And those who lovingly care for them live the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ in exceptional purity.
In his remarks Saturday morning, Elder Packer said, "It is natural for parents with handicapped children to ask themselves, `What did we do wrong?' The idea that all suffering is somehow the direct result of sin has been taught since ancient times. It is false doctrine. . . . Afflictions come to the innocent."The very purpose for which the world was created and man introduced to live upon it, requires that the laws of nature operate in cold disregard for human feelings," he said. "We must work out our salvation without expecting the laws of nature to be exempted.
Elder Packer said it is not unusual for foolish children and some thoughtless adults to make light of the handicapped. "The mimicking or teasing or ridiculing of those with handicaps is cruel. Such an assault can inflict a deeper pain than can physical punishment; more painful because it is undeserved. It is my conviction that such brutality will not, in the eternal scheme of things, go unanswered and there will be a day of recompense.
"Parents, take time in the next home evening to caution your family never to amuse themselves at the expense of the handicapped or of any whose face or form or personality does not fit the supposed ideal, or whose skin is too light or too dark to suit their fancy.
"Teach them that they, in their own way, should become like angels who `move the water [as did an angel at the pool of Bethesda, see John 5:2-4T, healing a spirit by erasing loneliness, embarrassment or rejection."
If healing does not come in mortal life, it will come thereafter, affirmed Elder Packer. "Just as the gorgeous monarch butterfly emerges from a chrysalis, so will spirits emerge. Bodies which are deformed and minds that are warped will be made perfect. In the meantime, we must look after those who wait by the pool at Bethesda."
He said that parents and families "whose lives must be reordered because of a handicapped one, whose resources and time must be devoted to them are special heroes."
"You are manifesting the works of God with every thought, with every gesture of tenderness and care you extend to your handicapped loved one. Never mind the tears nor the hours of regret and discouragement; never mind the times when you feel you cannot stand another day of what is required. You are living the gospel of Jesus Christ in exceptional purity. And you perfect yourselves in the process."