Embracing Limitless Abilities

“You never really understand a person until you consider things from their point of view…Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.” Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird.

Individuals with special needs are like everyone else. Their personalities are complex, and no one should ever think any two individuals, special needs or not, are the same. Individuals with special needs often times think and act differently from others. Others do not. It depends on the severity and the specific disability. I have worked with individuals in their 50’s that have the mental acuity and activity of a 7–8-year-old. And others I have worked with have completed college courses and obtained a degree, because their disability effected their physical abilities and not their mind. It takes some time to visit and interact with each one individually to determine what it would take to meet them at their need. Engaging in conversation and observing them when they are comfortable in their surroundings is very important, it tells you a lot about their mentality and personality. Never assume how you speak and interact with one person who has down syndrome or autism is how you need to speak with everyone with either special need. Everyone is different, and special in their own way. Interact and engage with them, get to know them, and you will find out they are all are amazing people with a lot to give to friends, family and the community. Never underestimate someone based upon a disability.