Tasneem Ameen
Nov 3 · 3 min read

THE UNEXPECTED ‘SPECIAL’

A woman, when expecting, dreams of a baby that will be very special to her. And then, one day ,she suddenly realises that ,the new born is not only special, but also different from others . At that moment ,the thoughts that occupy her mind ,and the feelings that overwhelm her heart ,are more than a nightmare that you and me can ever imagine .In such a situation, to convince oneself on th First hand and than to convince the world is a big challenge .And to overcome this unending struggle, she does not even hesitate to erase her own existence.
 A mother not only play the role of a parent, rather ,she has to wear different masks from time to time to prove herself ; like that of being an educator, a therapist, a nurse.....and the list is endless. Since, many a times there is no support available to her due to stigma, stereotypes or various circumstances in her personal and professional life.
 Life is not about standing in the corner and let the tornado pass away it’s learning to dance in the rain. “Disability is a matter of perception”.Once you accept that your child will be different, not better nor worse, just different—that’s the first step.
 People often make comments and give suggestions, on how to raise or teach such children. Some give a sorry look ,while others look frightened, but no one allows there children to play with these kids as they are considered mentally unstable .There are some lines that should not be crossed, but people don’t understand this and start making unwanted comments ,like;--Your child doesn’t actually looks disabled, or, he/she will actually grow out of it .Even the parenting skills are questioned, and moreover the womb is blamed, for the medical condition .sometimes the best thing to say to a special need parent is nothing at all. You never know what struggle they are going through .When we talk about our kids excelling in academics, dance etc.....There definition of success is getting the children learn basic things like getting up, using toilet, brushing teeth.......and so on .
 Special need is about education . While disability is about your body ,your brain and senses being wrapped in a unique way .Every special child has the potential to learn and progress .How much potential the child reaches ,depends on great measures . With time and care kids improve, and get included in our so called “Normal society”. Raising the child while facing extensive isolation is’nt easy at all. Disability does not means inability. The key to achieve this is through right communication. It is possible once we let go the idea of a good life, and focus on the good in our lives. Believe me ,there’s a lot about such kids that is exceptional and can never be captured in any medical diagnosis. They have a large hearted outlook and God has blessed them with a treasure we willingly lose during the course of life......and that is.....INNOCENCE.

    Tasneem Ameen

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