Interdependence Works !
By Dr Mike Townsend , Chair of Trustees
I ’ m just back from my holiday touring Scotland in our motorhome . We managed to visit relatives and friends . But , as soon as we left them , each place was put under restrictions .
This year has been very different for holidays . My wife , Edith , and I enjoy cruises . Why ? Because we love a break where everything is done for us . We meet interesting people and we see exciting places .
I also enjoy specialised holidays for disabled people . We had a weekend break in Jordan with Traveleyes in March . It should have been two weeks , but we were concerned about being locked down there .
Sadly our DCF holidays for 2020 had to be cancelled . So much disappointment ! They are the preferred option for so many disabled people .
Recently I have been challenged about providing holidays and services especially for disabled people . A few people have said that such provision fosters a dependency culture . I was shocked ! I began to reflect on how we each make choices about what works for us .
The disability world went through a period of fierce independence . But we are all ‘ interdependent ’ whether we see ourselves as disabled or not . Edith is a great cook , but hopeless at tech ! I sort the tech out . We work together .
The Bible is full of instances where interdependence is the key . The church is a ‘ body ’ with Christ as head - working together . At the beginning , in Genesis , loneliness was seen as an issue . Genesis 2:18 “ The LORD God said , “ It is not good for the man to be alone . I will make a companion who will help him .”
Interdependence is the way Jesus works .
“ Take my yoke upon you and learn from me , for I am gentle and humble in heart , and you will find rest for your souls . For my yoke is easy and my burden is light .” ( Matthew 11 : 29-30 .)
Through the Roof ’ s mission is : “ Transforming lives through Jesus with disabled people .” Jesus shares our lives with us . Remember the feeding of the five thousand ? A young boy shared his lunch . The disciples served it out . Could Jesus have done it all by himself ? We work together with Jesus .
Congratulations , Brian !
Many congratulations to Through the Roof ’ s great friend and supporter , Brian Gault , who was honoured to be awarded an MBE in the Queen ’ s Birthday Honours List 2020 . Brian received his MBE for services to Thalidomide survivors in Brazil and children with disabilities throughout the world .
Congratulations Brian ! www . throughtheroof . org