Where Special Needs Families Care and Share Together
Another issue that’s not so black and white. I think the perspective from those with Down Syndrome is interesting. I do believe that without my friends who have Down Syndrome I would lose something precious and special.
Concerns Linger As New Down Syndrome Test Hits Market – Disability Scoop.
What do you think?
I’ve been ruminating on a few news items lately and reading the debates over pros and cons of these issues. I’d like to share my thoughts, not on the issues themselves but rather on my thoughts about the actual discussion process. 
First, let me give a little info on the two main issues that drove me to my keyboard.
One is Congresses intent to review the Subminimum Wage law that allows companies to hire workers with disabilities and pay them less than minimum wage. As the parent of a Developmentally Disabled child preparing to enter the work force I can honestly argue for and against subminimum wages. The other issue is the Dream Act that will allow illegal immigrants in California to apply for state funded financial aid. Honestly, it’s a bit difficult to see the merits here. I have watched services for Matthew cut several times in the past few years due to budget cuts. It’s a bit tough for me to see how it is fair for people who don’t pay taxes, who don’t “play by the rules”, to receive financial breaks on a college education. I pay my taxes. I play by the rules. And Matthew gets less.
Exploring these issues has made it even more clear to me than it already was…
There are some pretty passionate people on both sides of these two issues. They often voice their opinions in a “my way or the highway” attitude. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not judging their opinions or their right to voice them. Indeed I believe our First Amendment is very precious.
But here is my concern…
We all come to the table with our own set of values and experiences. When we format our opinions only from those perspectives then we might be closing our minds to opinions and ideas from others. We might be closing ourselves off to people who have different values and experiences that are no less valid than our own.
This can lead us into thinking in terms of black and white. If we open our minds to truly listen to what others have to say, we might find out that they have some interesting points of view. We might find out that when we all come to the table and truly listen to each other, openly, honestly and without blame, that we aren’t so far apart. And that we can work together. For everyone’s benefit.
We might find a world of glorious colors.
Pretty scary, huh?
So what do you think? Please add your comments in the form below.
October 6, 2011
Hello!
I’ve been working behind the scenes a lot the past few weeks getting everything fine tuned. I still have some things to do but I thought I’d check in with you before going further. After all, this site is for you!
I always want you to feel like you are stepping into a good friend’s living room, that you are in a safe and comfortable place. Someplace you want to hang out. Someplace you know you will find friends. And most importantly, a place where you will find help.
While I do have a Special Needs Son so I am “my own customer”, each Family is in their own unique situation. So I would like to ask you to give me just a few minutes of your time to help me make the site one you will turn to whenever you need information, resources and support.
It won’t take long and there are only 8 questions. None of them are required so you can skip questions if you like. But please keep in mind that the more feedback you give, the better I can make the site!
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with me. I promise to keep all of your information and answers confidential, as always.
And if you know of anyone you think would like Our Special Families Village, please feel free to send this to them. They can fill out the survey once they have had a chance to look around.
See you in The Village!
Sandy
