#embracing differences

Shaina Tranquilino

October 19, 2023

Where individual differences are often stigmatized or overlooked, there is much to be gained by embracing diversity and learning from those who possess unique abilities. Individuals with special needs have an incredible capacity to teach us valuable life lessons that can positively impact our personal growth, relationships, and understanding of humanity as a whole. Their resilience, kindness, authenticity, and ability to find joy in the simplest things are just a few qualities that we can learn from and integrate into our lives.

1. Celebrating Resilience:

People with special needs exhibit remarkable resilience in navigating the challenges they face daily. Despite facing physical or cognitive challenges, they often display an unwavering determination to overcome obstacles. Witnessing their tenacity reminds us of the importance of perseverance and resilience in our own lives. They inspire us to confront difficulties head-on and find strength within ourselves to push forward during tough times.

2. Cultivating Compassion:

Individuals with special needs consistently demonstrate unparalleled levels of empathy and compassion towards others. Their genuine concern for the well-being of those around them serves as a reminder to treat everyone with kindness, dignity, and respect - regardless of their abilities or differences. By observing their profound empathy, we can learn to foster more inclusive communities where acceptance thrives.

3. Embracing Authenticity:

One beautiful lesson we can take away from individuals with special needs is their innate ability to embrace authenticity without judgment or pretense. They do not feel compelled to conform to societal expectations but instead radiate pure genuineness in all aspects of life. Observing this teaches us the value of being true to ourselves and encourages us to live authentically while appreciating the uniqueness in others.

4. Finding Joy in Simplicity:

Often consumed by the fast-paced nature of modern living, we tend to overlook the small moments that bring true joy and fulfillment. People with special needs often possess an extraordinary ability to find happiness in the simplest of things, reminding us that genuine joy can be found in unexpected places. Whether it is a heartfelt smile, a shared laughter, or the appreciation of nature's beauty, their ability to savor life's simple pleasures encourages us to slow down and cultivate gratitude for the little joys that surround us.

What A Brummie Chinaman Taught Me About Variety #thoughtpiece

I helped at a shelter last week. Amongst the clients who turned up, were three men we’d not seen before. They appeared to speak Mandarin and certainly had a Chinese appearance. Someone, near the counter made an off colour remark. There was a rather pregnant pause and the nearest of the three men turned and in as broad a Brummie accent as could be imagined suggested the speaker might like to shove…

You may wish you were taller, shorter, straighter, or curvier. You may feel like your differences make things a little awkward with friends. But just keep going. Keep growing and leaning into each other. Stick together and one day you will see how the things that make you different, can make you each exactly who we need.

Once upon a time there were two little palm trees planted by the water.  They didn’t choose to be there together, but they were glad to have each other’s company.  As days went by, they swayed and laughed in the breeze.  On dark nights, they were comforted, knowing they were never alone.  Together, they weathered raging storms and blistering heat.  The sound of the lapping ocean, mixed with the…