I wish to encourage belief in the ability to learn.
Over the years my clients and students have taught me that abilities improve as skills and strategies grow.
And growth requires the belief that progress is actually possible.
Disability may seem more real to us than human potential.
But this is an imbalance that moves us in the wrong direction.
We may get caught up in a disorder as we examine it, label it, pour our energy into it, try to understand it.
There is truth in the maxim that 'we get what we are looking for.'
We need some perspective.
None of us is perfectly, equally skilled in all areas.
At what point do we decide that our weaknesses are disabilities?
When might we choose simply to describe the weakness, isolating it so that we can work on it or work around it?
We get to choose the point of view that works best for us.
Many individuals have disorders that are very significant, but decide to look at them as 'challenges' rather than 'disabilities.'
Others acknowledge their disability, yet achieve growth that makes a difference.
Their belief in the problem is no stronger than their belief in human potential.
Is it scientific to believe in the human potential to learn in spite of obstacles? Yes.
Scientists are discovering that the human brain responds positively, physically, to suitable challenges.
When we set new goals 'just out of reach but not out of sight,' we can enjoy the satisfaction of achievement and a lifetime of new horizons.
Ruth Alice Jurey, M.S.
Speech/Language Pathologist