Every parent loves to talk about our kids. But as parents we lean on each other, ask for advice and trade numbers. I have listened to so many parents complain about potty training, a child that won't listen, sibling rivalry and "naughty" behavior... to name a few. Don't get me wrong. I have had my fair share of these things as well. And I don't mean to minimize them. These things can be exhausting to the most energetic parent.
But my "issues" are different (although with Reese they are pretty typical!). My obstacles are everyone and everything that gets in the way of Noah having the biggest and brightest future possible. For most parents this is almost a formula: loving parents, quality time and education will provide your child what they need to reach their fullest potential. I can't use this same formula. And that's always been okay with me. What's not okay with me is people in my life that take little to no interest in this difference. When I passed a petition and pleaded with parents of "typical" children to sign, some didn't. This was a petition for inclusion in the classroom--so children of different abilities could be included with their general education peers. I watched as some signed before I could even utter the words to ask. Knowing what Noah goes through they were willing to do what they could to help. And then the others that acted as though I didn't exist when I was right in front of them and refused to put their name down. Yes, I did notice those that CHOSE not to pick up that pen. And some can't even look me in the eye when I talk about Noah's struggles. They look away or change the subject. They leave the room. After a while it becomes apparent that it's not a coincidence.
To those people:
Is it fear? Are you scared of children with different abilities?
Can you not hear about children that are not like your own?
Are you ignorant? Or just rude?
Perhaps next time you are parading around your typical children you could take a moment to thank your lucky stars that you don't have the struggles or the fights that I have. That your children do not endure what my boy does each and every day. That discrimination is not part of your life.
I guess my point, as blunt as it sounds, is as simple as this: if hearing about an innocent child with a disability makes you uncomfortable then we are not friends.
Would love to hear your opinion on this here (comments) or to the right. Because I cannot figure this behavior out. I'm stumped. What would you do?
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5 comments:
Obviously there is no room in your life for these ignorant people! I say DIVORCE!!!! GRRR
Whoever Nic wrote this in regards to better make sure they explain themselves before I have to come after them...careful I am meaner than I look!
I can't imagine for a second what goes on those people's mind when they act that way.. don't they realize they are teaching their children something wrong. It is sad... I mostly feel sad for their ignorance, because as a person of strong faith I can tell you, when it all ends (and it will for each one of us someday) you will have to explain your actions to God, then what?
I'm playing Devil's advocate because, Nic, you know how I feel about this. But perhaps guilt plays a large role in making them uncomfortable. They know how very lucky they are to have "typical" kids,and even having to imagine something different, having "different" pointed out to them, is too much. They don't want to imagine it. They don't want to believe how tough it is.
I love you,
Kristy
point taken. and i think for some this is true. you have to trust me when i say this is not the case. i can tell the difference between someone that is a caring individual that just doesn't know what to say or do... and someone that is just rude.
and for anyone that is like that, it's important to know that for the rest of us (with our special kids), it does hurt.
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