As my Facebook friends commented on the picture, I was touched by their kindness. I considered how people, young and old, view Angie. I can't say for sure but I think she is accepted as just as valuable and deserving as anyone else. In the past, this thought made me grateful and I am not ungrateful now, but I see it differently. I used to think I should thank people for accepting Angie, but why would I? She deserves it.
My amazing friend, Sally Bartlett, is a huge advocate for inclusion for children with special needs. Her idea of inclusion is that children (and adults) with special needs should be included and valued in the same way as other children (and adults)-EVERYWHERE in the community. Sally came to Progress Center to talk to the staff this week and she inspired me to consider what inclusion means for Angie. I have tried to adopt an objective point of view about where we are on the road to inclusion for Angie. And then, the above picture was sent to me by Angie's wonderful assistant.
Inclusion is a lifelong journey for individuals with special needs. I believe that our community has provided a unique model of truly getting it. I know, I am saying it again. I would not trade this little town for anything! It is not just the kids. Kindergarteners tend to be pretty accepting anyway. But, as children get older, they model what they see adults doing. It is all of us, working together to make our community inclusive and accepting for people with all types of limitations.
On Halloween, Angie was invited by two special ladies to ride at the front of the Halloween parade. Angie waved like a princess and truly behaved as if she had won the lottery. She is still talking about her experience and I think it will be one of those memories that will return for years to come. Once again, she was made to feel important, not "special". My heart was so happy as I watched my girl have her moment.
I am going to continue making inclusion a goal for our community. Instead of thinking Angie cannot participate in activities because of one or another of her limitations, I will ask myself-Why not? I know that is what Sally would do.
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