I, Too

uniformity as opposed to extraordinary,

spe·cial  /ˈspɛʃəl/ Show Spell[spesh-uhl] 

–adjective

6.

extraordinary; exceptional, as in amount or degree; especial: special importance.

7.

being such in an exceptional degree; particularly valued: a special friend.

 

Is there anything of more value than a true friend?  One, who accepts you with all of your faults, then takes your side?  This is what I would like you to picture, when you think of special education.  Extraordinary people.  Individuals, who have exceptional gifts for those of us, who are not in special education.  We often think of schedules, status and future purchases.  We are addicted to the elusive future.

 

Some students in special educati on possess a special gift beyond price.  They live in the now.  The sensory.  The world of trusted adults and friends.  Their smiles are easily given and restored.  They forgive the children, who always pick them last.  They overlook the people, who talk like they don't understand, when they can understand the wonder of a well loved song. 

 

Before we talk about research, IDEA regulations and history - we have to remember this all started with a heart on the sleeve.  Before laws.  Before advocates.  Before lawyers there were people of good will, who envisioned every citizen having a place at the table.  The Langston Hughes poem, I, Too http://oldpoetry.com/opoem/show/15962-Langston-Hughes-I--Too- ,speaks for all of those without voice.

 

As we come upon Thanksgiving as celebrated in the United States, please reflect, who would you invite or exclude from that table. Why?