I believe that most of the world's issues today could be solved with love and this love cannot be exclusive. It has the ability to span over large gaps such as differences in gender, culture and religion. But today I want to focus on a different aspect of love and acceptance. Today is National Special Education Day.
Often times we hear about a cute picture of a child with Down's Syndrome or the child with Autism having a meltdown at the store or the comparison to Rain Man. But not everyone has had the opportunity to get to know and love the wide variety of personalities and individuals within these labels. And it takes the unique heart of a Special Needs Teacher to be able to bring the best out of these beautiful children.
These children are not "broken." They are not "undisciplined" or "infantile" no more than we can apply one generic label to any other group of people. These are simply judgements of people that do not understand the challenges of unique individuals. These children are each, in their own way, perfect. We all are.
I'm so grateful for all the children I have worked with in the past. I'm grateful to watch them grow into amazing individuals. I'm grateful to see the beautiful light they shine on this world. I'm grateful for the different view of the world that they have shown me. And I'm grateful to feel their love. I'm grateful for the amazing parents that do their best for their children. I'm grateful for special needs teachers and paraprofessionals that spend their time and give their hearts to these beautiful children. Thank you all!
What if your differences were your super powers? What if your struggles were to give you super human strength? What if your heart embraced every person on this planet as uniquely perfect? How would your life look different?
May today bless you with not just acceptance, but love for all. May you find your own strengths in your uniqueness. And may you see the beauty in every soul around you. Have a beautiful day!