Foreword
"Life in the Body God Gave
Me" is based on the writings and story of Neil H. Tasker, a spastic, who
reveals through this writing, his life experiences and devout faith in the
God he loved. The deep feelings portrayed unveil life from his boyhood,
when he first heard the words of an innocent child: "My mother told me not
to laugh at you, but I can't help it," through his adult years. The
journey climaxes many years later as Neil makes a final plea to the Virgin
Mary to answer his prayers, in the city of Lourdes, for a miracle that
would set him free and cure him of cerebral palsy.
The circumstances
surrounding his birth and early childhood are set down as told to him by
his father and mother. The difficulties he experienced as a victim of
cerebral palsy, first as a young man and later as a mature adult, are
based on his own narratives. All characters were at one time, or are still
today, living men and women. In some cases their real names are given. In
others they are not. Conversations are not verbatim because of the lapse
in time but they are structured to accurately reflect their meanings in
the context given. Names of towns and cities are correct, as are dates
given.
This story is
written so all who read it can appreciate the true meaning of living
within one’s abilities. These writings began in the early 1980’s and
although Neil H. Tasker lived a full life from 1910 to 1995, his story
lives on as a symbol of hope and fulfillment. As you follow his life’s
journey you will understand the pain, joy, love and compassion felt by
someone born with a handicap. When you have finished this story, whether
you are Catholic, Protestant, or of any other conviction, you will find an
awakening from within that will give you a new outlook on your faith,
life, and dreams.
Wayne C. Long
Endwell, NY
January 2008
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