When I look at the word, I don’t really know what it means to me.  What does it mean to be special? The word itself comes from the Latin word  speciālis.  Speci means type or kind,  of a given species.  From there we are led to the word especial which means special, exceptional, outstanding.  

Most times when we talk about children with disabilities we refer to them as having “special needs”.  But if we say it that way are we not stating that our children have exceptional and outstanding needs?  To me this could almost be taken as their needs are so great that we are burdened to take on the responsibility of caring for them.

Or are we looking at our children as especial, exceptional and outstanding people that we have been blessed with? How do we change our view from “special needs” to especial?

Children, teens or adults with specific needs or “special needs” can be an intimidating group.  They do not always react as one would expect to a situation.  They may touch you where no one has before.  The world may look at them as “special- different from what is ordinary or usual.” (dictionary.com) But if you have a child that is especial then you know they are exceptional and outstanding.

One of the definitions of special is: having a specific or particular function or purpose.  We ALL have a purpose, but our especials have a specific purpose.  I believe their purpose is to show us that no matter how hard life may seem, no matter how many times we fall down and stumble, no matter how unfair things may seem in life, that we can love.  We can share.  We can embrace life.  We can work hard.  We can enjoy everyday.

Look to those that are deemed especial watch how much fun they have in life.  Learn from them.  Help them along their journey.  Share with them and enjoy life with them.

People with special needs are not scary, they may draw us out of our comfort zones, but they will show you love and appreciation and friendship.  They tell you you’re fat or ask about your pimple that you tried to hide.

Those that the world tries to forget are truly outstanding and inspirational.  They weren’t given the best life according to the world.  They struggle with health issues.  They struggle with independence.  They struggle learning.

But they always try their hardest.  They are always eager to have fun, eager to love and eager to laugh.  Our especial  kids are ready for life’s challenges and eager to meet them head on.

Especial.

Exceptional.

Outstanding.

Our Kids.Cayden smile hike