My introduction to people with special needs began as a young child, visiting my aunt’s house. My cousin, older by just a few years, is hearing impaired. She is a dear and kind-hearted soul, who loves her family with selfless abandon.
The next exposure to people with special needs was a boy at school, with Downs syndrome. He was just a year older than myself, a most friendly guy, always wearing a smile for anyone who passed. I remember seeing him in the resource room, where I volunteered in high school, being taught, loved and cared for by the most human honouring woman I’ve ever known. I remember him in church, singing every hymn by memory.
As tomorrow is World Down Syndrome Day I thought I’d share a couple of my favorite thought-provoking article and video on the subject of people who have special needs.
The first (below) is written by CTV News at 6 host, Tamara Taggart, and more importantly, a mom of three, wife of one. It is a short, worthwhile read, of Tamara’s experience being told and understanding what it means to have a son diagnosed with Down syndrome.
The next is a lengthier video … but worth every second! The interview is with Jean Vanier (son of George Vanier, Governor General in Canada in the early 1960s), and each time I listen, I am reminded of my my own reason for working with people who live with special needs, diagnosis … to treat people with dignity, with respect and with love.
Warning: this video may just change you forever (watch it anyway). http://youtu.be/m8ECGXDDYd8
itsawonderfilledlife 
Love this! Sending this to my DIL who is a Special Education Teacher. Thanks!
As a father of someone with special needs I can testify to the lessons learned and how life looks through a lens many will never know. Great subject choice for this one!
explorenewness,
Thanks for reading and commenting. I admire your DIL, in her job, with many plates to keep in the air at one time. Hers is a near impossible task, and one that she inevitably takes home at night. I’m sure she will appreciate knowing that you are thinking of her in her job, and cheering from the sidelines!
Carole
upstream 13,
As a father of one with special needs, oh the book you could write! What a different perspective, on life, you must have. It is not as common for me to hear from a dad, thank you for reading, and for taking the time to comment. May this day be one of great blessing and joy for you and your family.
Carole