THE STORY OF THE STRANGER
In a humorous talk to high school students, Norman Kunc describes what it was like to have cerebral palsy and go to a regular high school. He shares with the students his discovery that he didn't need to hide or minimize his disability in order to be liked.
Norman generalizes this message and points out that most people believe that they're not good enough as they are and continuously strive to find a place where they feel they belong. Unfortunately, a common way to create this sense of belonging is to focus on a common enemy which can result in racism, prejudice, gang activity and violence.
He stresses that it is vital for schools to create a sense of belonging for all students, and especially for those students who are seen as the "strangers" among us. He encourages students and teachers to value their own diversity and to look for the stories in each other. In this way we can actively work together to create schools which are safe and positive places to learn.
|
