Persons with Intellectual Disabilities or Intellectually Disabled Persons: Which is the Classifying Entity? As I write this, sitting in a solitaire corner of the library, I'm gently enclosing in my hand a simple rubber bracelet. My inspiration. Not the famous, bright yellow LiveStrong ones that Neil Armstrong once yielded, but a modest black band with contrasting white letters simply stating "I See You." This statement may seem unpretentious and bland, maybe even comical to some, but it has a sincere meaning that, once elaborated, is a melodious significance and tribute to not only the raw entanglement of modern human culture, but also the subtle complex notions of social interactions. Central Africa's customary greeting is "I See
I had had a long day and was constantly dropping my work, spilling beads everywhere. As I was ready to give up and move on to his reading practice, he looked up and said in his timid but sure voice, "I don't mind that you drop them. Seeing the colors roll and bounce is so mesmeric." He closed his eyes and slowly pronounced the last word. I had taught it to him the day before. He saw a chance to enjoy something beautiful which I, and most other "normal" people, only see as a burden. Being intellectually disabled does affect communication, coordination and learning abilities but nothing can take away emotions. One of the most devastating myths about autistic children is that they cannot feel or show affection. Even though they may have trouble expressing such, they feel affection just like anyone else. It takes patience and understanding, as with anybody, but they will open up when given the opportunity that few people do, especially with the common view on intellectual disabilities. Yes, they are technically disabled. Jessica Hoffman is an Autistic Director the Best Buddies Program in Jacksonville, Florida and has spent the past six years of her life working with students with intellectual disabilities, including her own little brother. According to her, "Every person with intellectual disabilities have their own set of difficulties, despite the diagnosis. Two children, both