I just finished watching a recent episode of the Correspondents. It was about students studying in the Philippine National School for the Blind. I cannot even imagine what it is like to be blind ;not being able to see colors and the beauty of the world. You would think these students would just give up. Instead, they learn how to become self-sufficient and independent.
Unfortunately, after graduating from high school most of them find it difficult to be enrolled in colleges and universities. Worse yet, they find it even more difficult to find jobs.
I do realize that the Philippines is not like the United States. I do know that many of the opportunities that exist here are not afforded to many in the Philippines.
What can Filipinos do? You ask.
As one of the blind teachers said in the program,
“We don’t need pity. We need opportunity.”These people are not wallowing in self-pity. They are making the most of what they can. They are fighting back against their disabilities and showing their worth. Please give them a chance. If you’re in Human Resources, a manager, or someone in a position to give them the opportunity to show their skills, please do so. All they need is reasonable accommodation.
Give them a chance.
5 comments:
oh this post made my heart bleed, JV. it's pieces like this that make me reassess my worth as a human being because thre seems to be nothing that I could do to help them. ok, so i was touched. but what happens next after the "touching"? how do i put that as a motivatio to make a difference in their lives?
hopefully, someone in office will just have the eyes to "see"
Very touching case, indeed. Life seems not to be fair sometimes. I know it's too late for those who are already afflicted by blindness, but perhaps we can prevent further cases. One of the major causes of blindness in the developing countries is Vitamin A deficiency. Perhaps we can focus on educating and supporting pregnant and lactating mothers with regards to proper nutrition of children.
yup. i saw that episode too.
its terrible that the philippines dont have opportunities for the disabled.
@rye- a kind word, a simple gesture--even a smile can brighten up anyone's day. revolutions do not happen overnight.
@jericho- i've lost hope on the one in office. but i haven't lost hope on the Filipino people. anything is possible if you will it. =)
@dr. j- absolutely! an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. it's worthwhile to look at all sides of the issue and its roots.
@chase- i'm sure things will change if only people's perception of the disabled change with it. simple things like not laughing at the disabled and encouraging children to understand disabled persons will lead to a more caring society.
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