A DISABILITY

The special need does not define the person. Whether it is Down ’s syndrome, cerebral palsy, being a quadriplegic, or some other disability, humanity remains the same. In a culture that more frequently views the worth of people through the lens of production and consumption, it is essential to remember life is a fragile miracle. Yes, it may cost more for care in terms of money and manpower for those with special needs, but that does not diminish the worth of the person.

Do not be afraid of the special need. In the case of my sister, when she met someone new she offered them her hand to shake. Even though her hand hung limp, this was her effort to make people comfortable with her and remind them she was just like anybody else. Yet, it also gave her insight into how they viewed her. Many people recoiled or avoided her hand as if her disability was communicable. Those who took her hand and shook it were communicating their choice to see her through the lens of humanity.

Do not offer the special needs individual your pity. First, they don’t want it. Pity comes from focusing on what the person with special needs cannot do, rather than what they can. Denise learned to paint by holding the brush in her mouth and she graduated college with a degree in hospitality management. She was witty, smart, and worked very hard—not worthy of pity at all. However, you have to take a moment to get to know her beyond her disability to see that.

Ultimately, how we react to and treat those with special needs is a commentary on how we perceive ourselves and what makes us valuable. It is a useful to become aware of negative reactions and understand what the source is. This enables you to grow spiritually and emotionally.