I had my annual check-up at my doctor’s last week. All went well but the one thing that always comes back into focus when I go to the doctor is my AMN.

AMN (Adrenomyelonueropathy) is a neurological condition that I was diagnosed with about six years ago. Given the fact that my AMN has caused me to have difficulty walking and horrible balance, it seems funny to say that I don’t think much about it until I go the doctor, but that is the truth. Actually, I don’t really talk about it at all. When some asks about my limp, I usually tell them it’s an old basketball injury.

Usually a few days after my physical, AMN recedes again into the background of my life. This year has been different though, as I’ve been spending the last few weeks wondering why God allowed AMN to come into my life. Not a bitter, frustrated “why God?” but a real curiosity and desire to understand for what purpose I’m carrying this. The real question I’ve been asking Him is “How can this weakness be a blessing?” In other words, can my AMN be a strength?

I really don’t want to hang a flag outside my door saying “Look at me, I’m living with debilitating condition,” but at the same time how can I bless others with this?

I’m not sure of the answer, but I decided to start here and share it with you. I imagine most, if not all, of you didn’t know this about me.

I certainly welcome your prayers, but please save the pity for those far less fortunate than me. My only request of you in this email is to look at your own lives, notice the weaknesses and limitations you have and ask, “How can this weakness be a strength?” Then look for ways to bless others through it.

I’d love to hear what you discover about yourself through this. Post a comment here.