So simple a word, yet the concept of it .. is so hard for some people to grasp.

Everyone wants to be included. Nobody ever wants to be picked last for the team. I am sure that I am not alone in remembering that memory all to well. ( shudder - shudder).

I can only speak for myself, but have a feeling many special needs parents might share the feeling. I have watched young son stand on the sidelines and watch other kids play. I know that he would love to be "IN"vited but right now just doesn't have the words.

I realize that in some cases people are just plain ignorant and will never understand how much it means to our children to be a part of a group. How much they benefit. Of course the special needs kids benefit - but it's a two way street. The people who "In"clude our children will get so much more. More than they will ever realize. Unconditional love, smiles, cheers, and they will also learn about tolerance, understanding, patience. Last time I looked - the world needed a little more of this.

"In"clusion. Adults and children all crave to be wanted, accepted, loved. I don't care how old you are, what your circumstances are, if you are special needs or "normal". Although I am not sure that I understand the definition of "normal" anymore. It's probobly the wrong word to describe what I am trying to say.

As for the new "IN"clusion project. I think it goes beyond the needs of just people with disabilities. I think that some people have "disabiilities" you just can't see them. I hope and pray that this new endeavor will expand the minds and emotions of all people.

Since we all live together .... if it's in the same town or not.... we are more alike than we are different... we all need to be "In"cluded.

Just some thoughts.

God Bless...

Barb