“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can to that. ”

Quote from by Martin Luther King, Jr.'s speech

Dr. Martin Luther Jr. was a minister and a great leader that made history. Even while living in an era of discrimination, he strongly felt love could conquer all. Martin Luther King, Jr was a very admirable man, he was a man that came across many challenges and struggles, he took risks and kept fighting and advocating for equality. His mission was to spread love while aiming to end discrimination; He marched and walked side by side with others that wanted to see change and taught them about love.

Fast forward to today, although we are still a work in progress things have improved. Martin Luther King Jr made history by taking the initiative and sharing his dream. Because of that dream he opened doors for others to the unimaginable. 

Did you know? According to the 2018 statistics www.kidsdata.org 3.3% of children in California have major disabilities. This amounts to more than 300,000 children ages 0-17 with one or more serious impairment in hearing, vision, cognition, walking, or self-care.

So, as we know there are different forms of disabilities and there may not be a precise time to explain to your child what disabilities or special needs means? But, at some point in their life they should be able to understand.

According to Merriam-Webster's dictionary the word "disabilities" definition: a physical, mental, cognitive, or developmental condition that impairs, interferes with, or limits a person's ability to engage in certain tasks or actions or participate in typical daily activities and interactions.

That may be the definition, but I've learned that most individuals don't feel limited by their disabilities and are able to lead productive and fulfilling lives. Some may need assistance from others but treating them different may not be agreed upon. Most may feel that their disability does not define who they are or what they can accomplish. Individuals with disabilities have built their strength and determination within and it’s ok that everyone does things at their own pace.

So, when you are ready to discuss with your little one let's remember words are extremely powerful and you may define things better than the dictionary. We also will need to be prepared to answer questions which may arise. Who knows you may be raising a future advocate for those with special needs. 

Please check out the video above with Cole Blakeway. As he speaks about the awesomeness of being uniquely different.

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