Last week, we were all entering the House Chamber at the Virginia Capitol building to perform a mock reading of a new bill, and to examine exactly how laws are passed in the Commonwealth.  The group I was with was a part of the Youth Leadership Forum, a week-long conference designed to teach the student delegates about the importance of self-advocacy, civic engagement, accepting their abilities, clarifying their goals, and other important traits as they grow older with a varying range of disabilities.

The students I worked with for the week ranged from being deaf/hard-of-hearing, to physically disabled, to mentally disabled, to intellectually disabled.  I have a great amount of experience working with students with special needs, and this one was just as rewarding as it usually is.

As all of the students were getting situated, one student was having a bit of a time pushing his own wheelchair.  Another student, who just happens to be deaf, assisted with helping the student into the space, and finding him a spot at a desk that was comfortable.  Luckily, I know just a little bit of American SIgn Language, and had been able to communicate *roughly* with the delegate throughout the week, but even with our communication “barrier” I tracked him down, re-explained the AC4P movement, and shared my wristband with him.

One of the most rewarding moments I have experienced in a long, long time.

The best part about this interaction, I think, wasn’t even photographed. At the end of the week-long forum, while we were both leaving to head home, I waved goodbye to the student.  But he did me one better – he came up to me, and gave me a giant bear hug, and let me know that we would see each other soon.  He was still proudly donning his green wristband. I wonder who he will share it with…

It’s just wonderful.  Goes to show that communication knows no boundaries and compassion knows no limits.