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Page 1 of 2 PHILADELPHIA – As drove into Philadelphia, we spotted the statue of Benjamin Franklin, which you can see prominently from many angles. It always reminds me of his practicality, foresight, understanding of people, and his vision for this country as a whole.
During my talk at the YMCA in North Philadelphia, the discussion turned to the issues and struggles of the handicapped. There were stories of how the handicapped are often ignored and pushed aside by society. Often times they are seen as less than a “normal” person in the eyes of those who don’t fully understand.
This also occurs with the elderly, especially those who use wheelchairs and other devices to remain mobile. Many times, they are ignored or even treated as if they have a contagious disease that nobody wants to catch. There was a woman in the group who had internalized her pain and feelings about the way her husband had been treated as wheelchair-bound person his whole life. I’m glad that she finally spoke of her anger and deep resentment about the humiliation her husband has suffered due to other people’s ignorance. As she told her story, I could see her pain diminishing. This type of sharing is essential for someone who is in pain. It usually leads to a new level of understanding both for the speaker and those who are listening. I bet Benjamin Franklin would encourage more of this discourse across our great land.
Next: Dr. Marion on tour: a community without walls.
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