Inclusion and our Social Contract

“As soon as any man says of the affairs of the State “What does it matter to me?” the State may be given up for lost.” Jean-Jacques Rousseau, The Social Contract “There is nothing better than the encouragement of a good friend.” Jean-Jacques Rousseau My children have all crossed the threshold into adulthood. My youngest son Ben is settling deeply into a happy life as an art student in Savannah. He is happier than I have ever seen him, living according to his goals and talents. His art is a wild and wonderful combination of wisdom and wit way beyond his twenty years. My middle son Max is a First Assistant Cameraman living in Brooklyn. He has a beautiful life rich in friends, interesting gigs like feature films and fashion shoots, and the freedom to explore his fullest potential. My oldest son Nat has, at long last, arrived at his most exquisite opportunity: Full Inclusion in society. Being able to work, play, rest, grow. As a man with autism, this takes a special combintion of drive, patience, and support. Nat has the first two. The support he needs comes from his family and his community. And our government. This support enables his participation in a full life. You cannot have a full life unless you are included among others in the world. You cannot be included if you do not have the tools to allow you to function among others. People with disabilities need tools to manage in society. Ramps, canes, service dogs, talking crosswalk signals are some....
Source: Susan's Blog - Category: Child Development Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: blogs