I was searching through old pictures in search of another when I found this:
It’s the perfect, candid moment of me and Jon. The joy in his face as he talks to me about who-knows-what makes me wish the entire world could understand the pleasure of having someone like Jon to go through life with.
Today is World Down Syndrome Day, and if I could ask only one thing of you on this day it’s this: Listen. Not only to those who have special needs, but to every person you encounter.
Real listening is not simple, in fact, it requires a lot. It requires humility—putting your own thoughts on pause. It requires empathy—attempting to understand the words and sentiments being spoken. It requires silence—refusing to offer unrequested advice. And it requires time—giving of yourself for no purpose other than caring for another.
So many times, people like Jon are ignored. Sometimes not on purpose, but simply because we aren’t used to slowing down and really listening.
And I think maybe many others share this same experience, disability or not.
When someone speaks, set aside your personal agenda for a moment, and listen. It’s what I hope others will do for Jonathan, and might just be one of those simple things which could change the world.
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