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In a world where productivity and economic success measure man’s worth, my disabled brother Matthew heroically witnesses to the true dignity of the human person. Having suffered brain injury and a stroke on the right side with the onset of Type 1 Diabetes at the age of nine, he now lives with cognitive and physical disabilities as a twenty-three-year-old. His handicaps hinder him from advancing in academics and attaining a self-sustaining career, but his life is nonetheless one of utmost value and preciousness.
For as long as I remember, Matthew has been a burst of sunshine and laughter in my family, radiating an unearthly joy despite his disadvantages. His ornery blue eyes, enormous grin, and contagious mirth banish undue seriousness. Renowned for creating jocular puns, singing jubilantly in the shower, and power-walking miles for daily exercise, he delights those who know him. They marvel at his perpetual lightheartedness. Especially devoted to the Holy Eucharist, my brother possesses a simple and trusting faith in God which also inspires many. He ardently prays for an end to abortion, recognizing the intrinsic worth of the weak like all authentic heroes do.
His hidden heroism involves both prayer and service. Serving those around him in small significant ways, he assists with the family grocery shopping, cleaning the kitchen, and being attentive to the lives of others. He particularly impacts my life. Supporting me in all of my activities, Matthew selflessly allows me to shine and even encourages me to shine brighter. During my volleyball games he emphatically cheers from the bleachers and afterwards gives me a giant hug or thumbs-up. He praises my piano playing, motivating me to conquer challenging music.
Matthew not only elevates my endeavors but also unwittingly summons me to penetrate the fog of worldly busyness so as to live under the canopy of Eternity with gaiety, faith, and love. His life silently proclaims that man’s true end resides in God, not in material achievement, and that every human person has inherent value, no matter how “disabled” or “unproductive.” By so doing, my “unsuccessful” brother unveils the nature of real everlasting success in a beautifully heroic manner.